Maryland-National Capital Park Police play Secret Santa to help Md. family

GLENARDEN, Md. - Police made wishes come true on Monday as a Prince George's County mother and her four children received a Christmas that they would never forget.

Police sirens usually mean one thing, but on this night, it meant St. Nick was on his way.

It was an early stop for the jolly old elf, which was made possible by the Maryland-National Capital Park Police. This was their annual Secret Santa mission that helps a local family in need.

"Each kid provided two gifts that they would like to receive," said Maryland-National Capital Park Police Cpl. Randy Green. "The kids got their gifts that they actually wanted from Santa and mom got a little bit of support to help the family through this time."

Afeisha Carter is grateful Santa dropped off presents for her four children. But Santa and his elves also came bearing thousands of dollars in gift cards for her.

"This is more than I expected," she said. "I was really surprised."

She is a single mother working two jobs. Carter is also trying to finish school and is a volunteer EMT.

Six police cars, four police motorcycles, one fire truck and Santa Claus came together at the Glenarden Community Center and traveled to Carter's home nearby to present the gifts to the family.