Hold-Up Squad raises funds for Fallen Officers and Victim Services

The National Police Officers’ Memorial Run (NPOMR) was a beneficiary of this year’s Toronto Police Service Hold Up Squad annual fundraising golf tournament at Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Orillia.

“This is an opportunity to remember the sacrifice these officers made,” said Inspector Joseph Matys. “We will never forget them. I am extremely proud of the work of our officers who organized this tournament to raise the funds for the NPOMR.” 

The cheque presentation took place on July 12.

“This donation is so important to us,” said Peel Police Sergeant Bob Hackenbrook who leads the NPOMR. “It will go into a larger fund that provides for the families of officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and other initiatives. If a fallen officer didn’t have children, we make a donation to a charity in the deceased officer’s name.”

He said Toronto Police has been a strong supporter of the NPOMR.

“Toronto brings one of the largest teams to the run and they are a participant every year,” Hackenbrook added. 

The Memorial Run was launched in 2005 to create awareness of the police and peace officers memorial service in Ottawa on the last Sunday of September, and to raise money for trust funds and memorials established in memory of police officers who have died in the line of duty.

Part of the proceeds from this year’s golf tournament that attracted nearly 60 participants will go to Victim Services Toronto that provides crisis response, trauma and support services to victims of crime and sudden tragic circumstances 24 hours a day.

“This is a great event for our officers to get together and have some summer fun while raising funds for worthy causes,” said Detective Kenneth Ray who organizes the tournament.