Capt. Jesse Bane of the Harford County Sheriff's Office was named May's county Employee of the Month for a decade of making Christmas brighter for more than 100 needy families annually.

The 22-year law enforcement officer, who commands the patrol division, interviews families between Thanksgiving and Christmas to determine their wish lists, said Deborah Henderson, a county government purchasing agent who nominated Captain Bane.

He also talks to children and attempts to provide at least one item on their lists, plus food and clothing as needed, she said.

Captain Bane gets many referrals from the county Department of Social Services and enlists co-workers and friends to adopt a family.

He also works with stores, civic groups and churches to collect toys, clothes and food. Gifts are wrapped and delivered on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning, on behalf of the Sheriff's Office, Ms. Henderson said.