By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The Helena Police Department along with other surrounding departments will once again be participating in ‘no-shave November’ to benefit the Wings of Hope Pediatric Foundation.

Helena Police Chief Pete Folmar said he, along with the entire department is looking forward to the friendly competition that will begin Nov. 1.

“It’s an awesome way for us to have a friendly competition in the county and also with the Hoover Police Department as well,” said Folmar. “It’s a friendly competition for us to see which department comes out on top raising the most money but in the end it’s all about Wings of Hope.”

Last year, the Alabaster, Pelham and Helena Police Departments raised nearly $14,000 for the Wings of Hope Foundation and presented a check near the end of the month for the foundation.

Folmar says this year Helena and all the other departments plan to raise even more money with the goal being $20,000.

“Last year Pelham won the whole thing and we’re going to try really hard to beat them this year,” said Folmar. “All of the departments last year raised close to $14,000 and we really want to try and top that.”

The Wings of Hope Pediatric Foundation provides assistance for families with terminally ill children by helping with emotional support, meals, house cleaning, lawn care, and when necessary, financial assistance with paying bills so families can focus on their child and the time they have together.

Any officer who wants to participate in the fundraiser must donate $50 of their own money to Wings of Hope to get the opportunity to grow facial hair for the month.

Folmar stressed that the fundraiser is not limited to just the police department, and they encourage the entire community to get involved and raise funds.

“We encourage anyone to donate and businesses who contribute will also get a shout out on our social media page,” said Folmar. “Contributions are 100 percent tax deductible and donations can be made by contacting Lt. Brad Flynn through phone, email or social media at the Helena Police Department.”