MID-HUDSON – Police unions and communities alike did their part to contribute to the needy during this holiday season.

Their deeds were particularly noted during these continued rough economic times.

The Columbia County Deputy Sheriff’s Benevolent Association delivered Christmas gifts to two area families. Members of the union accompanied Santa Claus on the deliveries and were greeted by children who would not otherwise have had a joyous Christmas.

The PBA spent $1,000 along with the time members volunteered to make the deliveries.

The Poughkeepsie Town PBA donated holiday food baskets to needy families in the area for the 30th year.

The union started with a single food basket to a family and now they donated 110 holiday food baskets to families in the community as a gesture of good will.

The Yonkers Police Department participated in “Operation Angel Tree.” An effort between Yonkers teachers and faculty of Westchester Hills School 29, the congregation of All Saints Episcopal Church in Briarcliff Manor, and members of the PD to give students in need Christmas presents.

The gifts were delivered to the kids throughout Yonkers.

In Mount Vernon, Mayor Clinton Young, Jr. and the city held their second annual bicycle giveaway to local organizations that serve needy children.

The new bikes were donated by Mount Vernon employees, local merchants, organizations and individuals. Over 100 bicycles were donated for giveaway.