Local law enforcement joins forces with criminal justice students in ‘Operation Joy’

The Corbin Area Technology Center’s Criminal Justice classes joined together with local state and federal law enforcement to bring some holiday cheer to area families in need in the second annual “Operation Joy.”

Through the efforts of the 60 students and the generosity of staff and community members, along with the VFW, Kroger, Sav A Lot and Walmart, 50 turkey baskets were made available for law enforcement to distribute to families across the area.

“The operation teaches our Criminal Justice students that law enforcement plays many different roles in the community,” said Criminal Justice Teacher Tackett Wilson, who is a former Kentucky State Police trooper. “Of course, the main purpose of the project is to give back to the community during the upcoming Christmas Holiday season. It teaches the students the core values of helping those who are less fortunate.”

Area law enforcement officers met with the students Thursday morning to get the baskets containing a turkey, stuffing, vegetables and drinks.

Area law enforcement officer selected the families.

This marks the second year the criminal justice students have participated in “Operation Joy.”

Fifteen boxes were delivered in 2015.

“We hope to continue to do this and make it bigger next year and every year afterwards,” Wilson said.