THOMASVILLE — As surely as October rolls around, local lawmen begin looking for pound cakes.

The confections are an integral part of officers’ efforts to do good things for the needy at Christmas.

The cakes serve as dessert with meals served during the annual Law Enforcement Goodwill Project.

This year’s event — the sixth annual — is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Oct. 23, in the Jail-Justice Center parking lot, 912 Smith Ave.

Drive-through meals will consist of barbecue pulled pork, baked beans, corn on the cob, bread and pound cake. Meals are $6.

“We need lots and lots of pound cakes,” said Shanell Roberts, Thomas County/Thomasville Narcotics/Vice Division administrative assistant.

Roberts, Goodwill Project pound cake coordinator, said Monday that only two pound cakes have been secured for the ’08 event. She may be reached at 225-3305 for more information.

“They can drop them off at the Jail-Justice Center,” Roberts said. “Homemade pound cakes are what we like, but we will take any kind of cake without frosting.”

The 2007 Goodwill Project raised about $6,000.

“We were able to provide Christmas to needy children and families,” said Jason Carroll, Thomas County Sheriff’s Office investigator and Goodwill Project chef.

Bob Brettel, also a sheriff’s office investigator, said most recipients are referred by various agencies. Schools and teachers also provide referrals.

“We give to agencies, too,” Brettel explained.

Tickets may be purchased from sheriff’s office, Thomasville Police Department or narcotics/vice division officers.

Carroll said ticket delivery is available by calling 225-3315 days.