WARREN, Mich. – As kids prepare to head back to school, Warren police officer Bryce Moon is going beyond his daily duties to give back to the community in a deeply personal way.
Moon, who grew up with a single mom and two brothers, knows firsthand the struggle of getting school supplies.
“I knew what it took for my mom, the stress it put on my mom to get three boys ready for school each year,” said Moon.
Now a police officer for seven years, Moon is hosting a school supplies drive on Sunday (Aug. 24) at Fitzgerald High School in Warren.
The event invites the community to donate backpacks and essential supplies like notebooks, pencils, markers, and glue sticks.
“This is just another example of an officer seeing a need, reacting, and making it his own,” said a Warren police Lt. John Gajewski.
Moon also recognizes the importance of confidence for kids starting school.
“I think it’s important for kids to go back to school with a fresh look that gives them the confidence to start the year on a good note,” Moon said.
To help with that, the event will offer free haircuts for boys and girls, easing an additional financial burden for families.
“It’s hard for everybody right now. We’re in a position where everybody is struggling. Everything is up in price — from gas and groceries to school supplies and school uniforms. Don’t be afraid to speak up,” Moon said.
The event, “Operation Back 2 School,” will take place on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Fitzgerald High School.
Along with supplies and haircuts, families can enjoy an ice cream truck, bounce house, face painting, a drone demonstration, and a police K-9 demonstration.
The community response has been strong, with many volunteers stepping forward to help after hearing about Moon’s efforts.