The Abbotsford Community Foundation (ACF) recently received an additional $20,235 for the Shine On Legacy Fund in memory of Const. John Davidson.
Cheques totalling that amount were presented to the foundation by Staff Sgt. Rick Stewart of the Abbotsford Police Department (APD).
The Shine On fund was established earlier this year in honour of Davidson, who was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 6, 2017 at the age of 53.
The fund – which supports youth overcoming adversity – recognizes Davidson’s passion for youth, and his commitment to safety and community, and it has continued to grow.
“Const. Davidson’s memory as a youth liaison officer is clearly honoured by this generous donation,” said ACF chair Lorna Hart.
The funds have been raised over the past few months through the sale of John Davidson memorial challenge coins, which sell for $15 each.
Thousands of the coins have been purchased throughout Canada and the U.S.
Much of the funds raised came from the Abbotsford Police Union – of which Stewart is president – as well as the Victoria City Police Union and The Teachers’ Store.
“In the 26 years that I have been policing in Abbotsford, I have never seen anything like the way the community came together and supported the APD through the tragedy of losing one of our own,” Stewart said.
The ACF is in the third month of a matching campaign initiative in which, for every $2 donated, an additional $1 is donated to the fund.
The challenge coin donation qualifies for the match, bringing the total value of the donation to $30,353.
Those interested in purchasing a coin can contact Stewart via email at rstewart@abbypd.ca.
Visit abbotsfordcf.org/ for more information.