The Buchanan County Sheriff’s Department pulled many people over Wednesday but some were surprised to learn it was for reasons other than a ticket.

“We’re looking for people who might need a little extra help for Christmas,” said Col. Bill Puett. “Stopping cars looking for people who need a little help.”

$2,000 was donated by what the department is calling a Secret Santa to distribute to people in need.

Deputies spread out across Buchanan County stopping cars and individuals who looked like they could use a helping hand. The went from Easton to DeKalb, Rushville, Agency, and even in St. Joseph.

“We’re looking for people anywhere that might look like they need a little help,” Puett said.

Puett said the program is a huge excitement for the department.

“We do the Adopt-A-Family program, we try to help out in anyway we can,” Puett said. “This is just another avenue that we’re able to help out the community.”

The St. Joseph Police Department received a similar donation from an anonymous donor as well.