Two local police departments received a special gift last month.

The Gilbert Police Department received a package in the mail, and inside were 250 beautiful handmade plastic crosses, sent with love from a little girl across the country in Illinois.

The tiny tokens of appreciation were accompanied by a handwritten letter from 8-year-old Arianna Nichols. She wrote “I make roses to spread God’s word. God’s word is peace, kindness, love, joy, patience, hope and faith. I am also Catholic and religious and loving and caring. I am a very very happy girl. I hope my crosses inspire people to pray and love Jesus. I also hope my crosses protect you.”

The elementary schooler has dedicated her free time to assembling these crosses out of Perler Beads, recognizing the sacrifices police officers make for their communities.

She also sent 200 crosses to the Chandler Police Department. They are a perfect token for officers to carry in their pocket or their vehicles while on the job.

Learn more about Arianna’s Cross mission on her official Facebook page. Photo credit: Arianna’s Mission.