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East Palatka Today
By the People, for the People
Putnam County Deputies to Host 'Tip-A-Deputy' Fundraiser for Special Olympics
The popular community event returns on April 17, inviting residents to dine with local law enforcement and support local athletes.
Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:38pm
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The 'Tip-A-Deputy' fundraiser combines community service, charitable giving, and the partnership between law enforcement and residents to support local Special Olympics athletes.East Palatka TodayThe Putnam County Sheriff's Office is hosting its third annual 'Tip-A-Deputy' fundraiser on April 17, 2026 at Corky Bell's Seafood & Steaks in East Palatka, Florida. The event invites the public to dine while local deputies assist restaurant staff, with all tips earned going directly to support Special Olympics programs in the county.
Why it matters
The 'Tip-A-Deputy' event combines community engagement, charitable giving, and the partnership between law enforcement and local residents to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics athletes with intellectual disabilities. The event has grown in popularity each year, highlighting the importance of supporting inclusive sports opportunities.
The details
During the 'Tip-A-Deputy' event, deputies from the Putnam County Sheriff's Office, including Sheriff H.D. 'Gator' DeLoach, will assist restaurant staff at Corky Bell's Seafood & Steaks. Guests can dine while interacting with the deputies, with all tips earned throughout the evening going directly to support Special Olympics initiatives in Putnam County. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet local athletes and purchase Law Enforcement Torch Run merchandise, with those proceeds further contributing to the cause.
- The 'Tip-A-Deputy' event will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The players
Putnam County Sheriff's Office
The local law enforcement agency hosting the 'Tip-A-Deputy' fundraiser to support Special Olympics athletes in the county.
Sheriff H.D. 'Gator' DeLoach
The sheriff of Putnam County who will be assisting restaurant staff during the 'Tip-A-Deputy' event.
Corky Bell's Seafood & Steaks
The East Palatka, Florida restaurant hosting the 'Tip-A-Deputy' fundraiser.
Special Olympics
The organization that will receive the funds raised through the 'Tip-A-Deputy' event, supporting their sports training and competition programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
What they’re saying
“The 'Tip-A-Deputy' event combines community engagement, charitable giving, and the partnership between law enforcement and local residents to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics athletes with intellectual disabilities.”
— Putnam County Sheriff's Office
What’s next
Residents interested in attending the 'Tip-A-Deputy' event are encouraged to arrive early, as the event is expected to draw a steady crowd throughout the evening.
The takeaway
The 'Tip-A-Deputy' fundraiser is a meaningful way for the Putnam County community to come together, support local athletes, and strengthen the bond between law enforcement and residents. By dining with deputies and tipping them, attendees can directly contribute to Special Olympics programs that provide life-changing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.