Social distancing requirements due to COVID-19 has put a damper on many birthdays for children in the area, but the Washington Police Department has found a way to help lighten things. The department is holding miniature parades with patrol vehicles past the homes of children for their birthdays. Police Chief Jim Lester said both the kids and officers are enjoying it. He adds that it’s a way to help build relationships in the community with the department, “You know, we’re not able to have the interaction that we would like to have with each of these parades, but they are getting to see the officers in a positive light and that’s a good thing.” Lester says they’ve had about 30 miniature parades so far. Parents who have a child celebrating a birthday at this time who would like a mini-parade can reach out to the police department on their Facebook page.