Headland Police officers grow beards to help the Child Advocacy Center

Headland Police officers are known for being clean-shaven and in their uniform ready to protect and serve. However, during the months of November and December, officers can accept donations in effort to not only grow a beard, but to also help the Child Advocacy Center.

The Child Advocacy Center helps children who have been abused and the Headland Police Department wants to give back to a center.

"This is a way for us to support a much-needed facility in the Wiregrass area," said Headland Police Chief Mark Jones. "Not only are Headland officers participating, but we have been approached by individuals wanting to participate. It's all about helping the Child Advocacy Center. I can honestly say I don't know what the child abuse victims would do without the staff at the Child Advocacy Center."

To participate, officers or individuals must donate $20 to serve as the buy in fee. Then, participants will continue to collect donations during the fundraising event to prevent shaving.

All donations will be given to the Child Advocacy Center on Dec. 31, Jones said. Beginning Jan. 1, all officers must return back to normal grooming specifications.

"I encourage everyone wanting to participate to join us," Jones said. "This is a great way to raise funds for such a great center."

The Child Advocacy Center provides services to more than 600 abused children in Dale, Geneva, Henry, and Houston counties.