The generosity of the Austin police officers didn’t stop at providing a heater. They also created a wish list of Hicks’ other needs, rallying the community to provide him with additional support. People brought him lunch, coffee, and treats from a local bakery. Cops for Charities also offered additional heaters to those in need, and a GoFundMe campaign raised over $10,000 for Hicks.
Officer Salazar felt honored to serve a man who had served his country, saying, “He’s just offered me a lot of kindness too, so to know that he’s also served and now I’m able to serve and give back to people like him.” The experience highlighted the officers’ dedication to helping others, proving they were more than just police but also guardians of their community.
For Hicks, the support he received was long-awaited. “It means everything,” he said. Described by Hicks as angels in blue, the Austin officers were the answer to his prayers. Gratefully reflecting on their kindness, he declared, “God is good indeed. God is good all the time.”