During this National Police Week, AT&T is recognizing police officers’ service and sacrifice with support to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, which is providing meals to 6,000 Chicago Police Department (CPD) officers on the street and on duty across every police district in the city.
The initiative will also provide gift cards for the families of the three Chicago Police officers who have died from COVID-19.
The meals are provided through financial support from AT&T.
“I applaud AT&T’s generous contribution to the brave men and women of our police force who are among the many Chicagoans serving on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis,” said Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “These meals are a welcome and encouraging show of support to our officers and appreciation for their incredible efforts to keep our city safe and secure throughout this unprecedented moment in our history.”
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The first meals will be distributed to officers beginning Monday, May 11, and the initiative will feed about 6,000 Chicago Police Department officers who are on duty and on the street during National Police Week.
“We are proud to be working with AT&T to further support our Police Officers. These officers are out on the street while everyone else is being asked to stay home. Bringing them a meal while working through this Virus is just one way to remind them we are here for them,” said Chicago Police Memorial Foundation Executive Director, Philip Cline.
“The COVID-19 virus has presented a new challenge for the Chicago Police Department, and our officers are working hard to keep the city safe,” said Superintendent David O. Brown. “Simple gestures like a fresh meal shows officers that they have the support of residents and provides the fuel they need to complete their shift.”
The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation will deliver the meals though the Illinois Restaurant Association.
“AT&T’s gesture is a truly positive moment during these uncertain times,” said Sam Toia, President and CEO, Illinois Restaurant Association. “We commend their team for honoring Chicago’s law enforcement professionals, who sacrifice their lives every day in service to our community, while supporting our local restaurants at a time when they need it the most.”
“We are grateful for the selfless work from so many heroes during this pandemic. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We can never say it enough,” said AT&T Illinois President Eileen Mitchell. “During National Police Week, we want to express our appreciation by recognizing the courageous work of Chicago police officers – and remembering those officers who lost their lives to COVID-19.”
