Canned Food Drive Reduces Fines In Sand Springs

The City of Sand Springs gave residents a chance to pay off fines or outstanding warrants Thursday by helping others .

At least one resident who owes the city was happy with the "Food for Fines" drive.  

Sand Springs "Food for Fines" drive allows anyone with warrants or fines in Sand Springs to bring cans and earn up to $200 off what they owe. Each can donated is worth $10.  

The food goes to the city's community services department and is being given to people in need.

"I wasn't stressed out, wasn't gonna have a nervous breakdown over having to pay the fine," said Lena Hall.

Lena Hall used the drive to pay off a ticket, but says she knows what it's like to go hungry and wants to help others in that same boat.

"I have friends that go to the community center to get helped out with food so I know how it is," said Lena Hall.

Sand Springs leaders say this program is not about catching or arresting people. It's all about helping them.

Police Chief Mike Carter says nobody with old tickets or fines will be arrested and if there's still an outstanding balance, the person can set up a payment plan toward their charge.

"It shows the accountability of the police department but it also shows that we're here as servants to the public and we're doing things to try to help them out," said Chief Mike Carter.

Hall says paying off her fine means she will have more money for the holidays.

"My kids are gonna be able to have a Christmas and I'll be able to get them some stuff now," said Lena Hall.