Hartselle Police Department personnel shared a home-cooked meal on Thursday as a token of appreciation from Forrest Chapel United Methodist Church. Pictured, from left, are police officer Robert Baker, SRO Michael Hudson, Chief Ron Puckett, Forrest Chapel church members Susann Sullivan, Margaret Puckett and Pastor David Teel. | Clif Knight

Clif Knight

Hartselle Enquirer

Thanks to members of Forrest Chapel United Methodist Church Hartselle Police Department personnel didn’t have to settle for a cold sandwich or a fast food hamburger for lunch on Thursday.

They indulged their appetites with a home-cooked  meal consisting of barbecue pork, baked beans, deviled  eggs, macaroni and cheese, chips and sweet tea.  They also had a choice of banana pudding or German chocolate cake.

This is part of a community outreach emphasis we  are undertaking,” said Pastor David Teel. “We want to “be internally strong as a church and externally focused.”

“Instead of having services at our church on Sunday, we’ll be spreading out to meet needs in the community. One of the things we’ll be doing is painting classrooms in the old Hartselle High School building.”

“We wanted to feed our police officers to show them how much we appreciate the work they do to keep us safe,” added church member Margaret Puckett.

“We appreciate  the food and thank you for showing your support for our officers,” said Chief Ron Puckett. “With what you’ve brought, we’ll have enough food for the officers that serve on all three shifts.”

“It’s not so much about the food,” he added, “but the recognition and support you are showing for our officers.