SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio spirit was on full display today as the SAPD West SAFFE Unit hosted its annual Thanksgiving Luncheon, bringing together officers, families, and community members from across the city.
Now in its 37th year, the long-running tradition offers a warm meal, laughter, and a chance to connect, especially for those who may need it most during the holiday season.
Anthony Hernandez has attended the luncheon for eight years, starting the tradition with his mother. Though she is no longer with him, he continues to come each year. “It makes me not be home alone,” Hernandez said. “I know the one sergeant and some of the officers and they know me because I come here pretty much every year. I continue to come because I like their generosity.”
For many families, the event is a time to come together. Local resident Noemi Creeks attended with her children and 10 grandchildren. “This is our brunch, and later we’ll prepare ours at home,” she said. “I feel grateful because the police station already does a lot for us, but for them to take the time to have us here is priceless. It makes me feel honored when I should be honoring them.”
SAPD Chief William McManus also stopped by to greet guests and thank volunteers. “This is part of working with the community. It’s part of community policing,” McManus said. “We’d be working with a hand tied behind our backs if we didn’t have community support. It’s a great time for community, family, and even for officers who can’t make it home to their own family dinner, they get to do it here with their work family.”
Chief McManus reminded attendees to celebrate safely. “If you plan to drink, make sure you don’t get behind the wheel,” he said.
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The SAFFE Thanksgiving Luncheon continues to be a meaningful tradition for both the community and SAPD, showing that connection and gratitude go hand in hand with the holiday season.