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The West Central Baptist Association is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual Law Enforcement/First Responder Appreciation Day, scheduled for Jan. 26 at Elkdale Baptist Church, located at 2221 Elkdale Street in Selma. The event aims to express gratitude to the dedicated men and women who tirelessly serve the Dallas County area, responding to emergency calls, providing life-saving medical services, and volunteering within the community.

Starting at 10 a.m., the association will distribute to-go lunches for on-duty law enforcement and first responders who are unable to attend the luncheon. From 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in-house meals will be served, followed by a special recognition service at 1 p.m. 

During the service, heads of local law enforcement and fire departments, volunteer fire departments, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will honor selected heroes from among their ranks.

Kathy Smith, the event organizer, and Woman’s Missionary Union director, emphasized the challenge of selecting heroes for recognition, stating that with all the recent storms, emergency responders have been working overtime.

“So many of these men and women have gone above and beyond,” Smith said. “Every one of them is a hero.”

Every attending member will be treated to a hot meal and a goody bag containing, among other things, heartfelt cards from local elementary school students. Moreover, special nominees will receive gift baskets loaded with prizes and gift certificates, a small token of appreciation for their dedication.

Lee Tate, the Director of Missions for the West Central Baptist Association, sees this event as a small gesture to express gratitude for the unwavering dedication of local emergency responders.

“What would we do without them,” Tate asked. “They run towards danger while we run the other way.”

The West Central Baptist Association is inviting the community to contribute to the cause. They are reaching out to local businesses and individuals for monetary or gift donations. Businesses that contribute by Dec. 29 will be recognized in the event program.  Individuals interested in supporting the cause can contact Kathy Smith at 334-328-9250 or visit the West Central Baptist Association at 2193 Broad Street in Selma.

The special recognition service at 1 p.m. is open to the public, and event organizers are hoping for a full house. They encourage everyone to stop by and show support for the community’s law enforcement and first responders.

“Please come and applaud these folks while they’re all in the same place,” Tate said. “You’ll be in a room full of heroes.”