BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Over the last 17 years, officers with the California Highway Patrol have parked their patrol cars to serve lunch at Outback Steakhouse in Bakersfield to raise money for the CHP Widows & Orphans’ Trust Fund.
On Wednesday, they welcomed folks who turned out to support the cause and grab a bite to eat in the process.
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“What it does is that anytime an officer passes while on duty or off, they’re the first in line of support to come together for the family, usually during their darkest moments, and it’s a network that provides that support,” said CHP officer Hector Romero.
Donations from Wednesday’s fundraiser will be given to the Widows and Orphans in memory of CHP officer Mark Ehly. Ehly passed away in 2010 after suffering a stroke.
The fundraiser raised just over $58,000, according to organizers.
CHP has raised a total of about $530,000 for its Widows & Orphans’ Trust Fund through the Tips for CHiPs event since 2010.
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