To the editor:

I want to thank the amazing businesses and people for supporting the Portsmouth Police Holiday Drive.

The goal of my 24-hour walk was to simply raise awareness and hopefully some gifts and donations; there were really no expectations. Something amazing and unexpected happened, and that something was all of you. You awoke a sleeping giant in this area and region. People have come together and done miracles.

I have received stories from people all over who need assistance, or who have shared good deeds and things they have done in their own communities. In a world where the perception seems to be so bad, so many have stared that in the face and changed theirs and others lives.

I have been lucky to have my dream job and work in the schools this year. Because of the hours and commitments, it has caused my family to cut back. Other than my child, we will not be exchanging gifts to tighten the budget up. I would have been sad any other year. Instead, you all gave me the best gifts of all: humility and awareness.

We are not poor, we are just an average family and I myself was able to realize that the gifts our organization can provide will produce a small amount of joy, but the kindness, love and lessons we all received will last us a lifetime. Thank you and Happy Holidays to you all!

Scott Sullivan

Portsmouth

Officer Sullivan is the school resource officer for the Portsmouth school district. He also heads up the Portsmouth Police Department Holiday Gift Drive.