ROUND ROCK, Texas -- A Round Rock police officer who was hit by a driver is getting help from his community.
The owners of The Long Branch Saloon in Downtown Round Rock held a benefit for Officer Charles Whites Sunday afternoon.
A driver hit him Feb. 25 while he was directing traffic away from a deadly hit-and-run on Interstate Highway 35, according to Round Rock police. He's been slowly recovering from his injuries ever since.
"When we heard it, my husband wanted to do something ... and this is what we could offer," saloon co-owner Minerva Villarreal said. "We pray for him and hope that everything will be OK. We kind of take it personal. We know what they do for us."
The benefit, which featured meals by Brett's BBQ and live music, raised money to help Whites' family as he transitions into rehabilitation.
"You back the blue. They keep me safe every single day. So, you know, when they fall on hard times, then we need to come out and give them our support," patron Julie Nichols said.
Officer Whites is showing some improvement, according to a Facebook post by the Round Rock Police Officers Association. He's now swallowing and squeezing his right hand on command.
The association is holding a BBQ fundraiser for him on April 15.