Edison PD Support Special Olympics With 'Flame of Hope' Run

EDISON, NJ — Officers from the Edison Police Department showed their support for New Jersey's Special Olympics by participating in the "Flame of Hope" run on Friday.

Around 30 officers and a few family members ran 6.2 miles after receiving the imitation torch from Woodbridge Police. They later handed it off to Highland Park’s police department.

The annual 10K run raises money for Special Olympic athletes who compete in local, state and national competitions.

The "Flame of Hope" is a symbol of the Special Olympics and represents individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Mayor Sam Joshi was present to cheer for the officers.

“Many of us here compete, volunteer or watch the Special Olympics and we know from firsthand experience how elite these athletes are,” Joshi said in a statement. “My administration firmly believes that recreational opportunities are vital to residents’ health and for creating a flourishing community. We’ve already committed to building or updating numerous recreational facilities. These facilities won’t just meet the bare minimum ADA requirements, but will be truly accessible and enjoyable for all our residents, including Edison’s very own Special Olympic athletes.”

Every year, over 25,000 athletes participate in Special Olympics New Jersey Programs. On Friday, more than 3,000 officers across the state carried the “Flame of Hope” to show their support.

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