Central Elementary School students team up with Olathe police to pay it forward

OLATHE, Kan. (KCTV) - The Pay It Forward Club at Central Elementary School teamed up with the Olathe Police Department (OPD) for Operation Secret Santa in December.

Throughout the month, $5,200 was raised to surprise community with $100 bills. On Dec. 16, students and OPD officers visited local businesses to bring holiday cheer to families who were least expecting it.

“Our goal was to spread kindness and individuals and families in the community,” said Principal Brandi Leggett. “We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful for the we’ve received from the OPD. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to directly contribute to the community and experience the true spirit of giving.”

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Students teamed up with the officers to walk through store aisles and handed money to people. Students were able to pay it forward to people of all ages.

“God bless them,” a recipient said through tears. “I will this until the day I die, and I’m 78 years old. I’m so happy. I just have never had nothing like this happen to me and I thank you.”

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