The Cranston Police Department wrapped up this year’s holiday gift operation. In a post on their Facebook page Friday, the department sent out a message of gratitude.

“We would like to thank Walmart Cranston, St. Mary’s Feast Society, Cardi’s, cranstoncares.org, and Starbucks Chapel View for their generosity again this year,” wrote CPD. “Also a heartfelt thank you to Stephanie Flynn whose daughter Alexis Silva passed at the age of 9 in 2010 from an accident on RT10 caused by a reckless operator in a stolen car. Alexis was an Edgewood Eagle cheerleader at the time and her mother was and still is a coach. Each year she does something in Alexis’ name. The last few years she has given us toys to give to other children in need. The recipients this year included CCAP families, eight Cranston families referred to us by the school department, God’s Voice Ministries Church, Kingdom Lighthouse Church, Praise Tabernacle, Ocean State Academy, and Councilwoman Aniece Germain who was collecting for community members in need.”

Cranston Police also mentioned “a special recipient,” Carmen, the grandmother of seven children, who crossed the department’s path in 2021.

“Carmen was a victim of long term domestic abuse and became homeless when she stood up against her abuser having him arrested and convicted,” according to the department’s post. “Despite her years of abuse, Carmen has been able to get back on her feet and wants only to provide for her grandchildren. We were happy to help her with that and proud of accomplishments. Happy Holidays!”