‘Badge of Hope’ Christmas event brings community connection and Christmas joy

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – A community Christmas event hosted by Restoration Community Church of Scott City and the Cape Girardeau Police Department took place over the weekend where families received free toys for their children, free food and more.

 More than 100 families gathered at the Cape Girardeau Substation Saturday afternoon for the ‘Badge of Hope’ Christmas toy giveaway, an event aimed at strengthening community ties and spreading Christmas cheer. 

 The event began at 6:00 pm on Saturday December 20, 2025, and offered free food, toys, music by Restoration Community Church Pastor Bob Lenz, a petting zoo and more.

Cape Girardeau, Public Information’s Officer Bobby Newton says events like this are vital for community and first responder connection.

“It’s crucial that we want the community to know that we’re here for them” says Newton. “Not just on their bad days, but even on the good days.  We want to build that relationship to where they believe in coming to us talking to us, seeing us out in public and waving and smiling.” 

Organizers describe the event as more than just a toy giveaway but a chance to form positive community relationships.

Newton shares that this was the first year for the Christmas event, but Badge of Hope will have more upcoming events for the community.

 “Badge of Hope on Good Hope Street just goes hand in hand. So, it’s a great opportunity to connect again with the public and with the community” says Newton.

The Cape Girardeau Substation is located at 629 Good Hope Street in Cape Girardeau.