RUMFORD – Linda French has seen how effective a police honor guard can be in other communities.

So on Tuesday night, she announced a fund drive to raise $1,700 to buy dress uniforms for four members of the Rumford Police Department.

“This will show support for our police department,” said the Charter Commission and Downtown Revitalization member and community activist.

She’d like to raise enough money to buy uniforms for two alternate officers, as well, but will begin with the four, she said.

Already, even before Tuesday’s official announcement, French said she has raised $175.

A police honor guard would be used at Drug Abuse Resistance Education graduations and during parades and veterans events, said French.

Police Chief Stacy Carter had mentioned the desire to include an honor guard in the 14-member department a couple of weeks ago. But, he said, police officers aren’t allowed to ask for money.

French, however, is.

“I’d like to raise the money quickly enough for the Christmas in the Valley parade on Dec. 3,” she said. “Particularly right now when we have to pull together.”

An account for police honor guard uniforms has been set up at Franklin Savings Bank. Anyone who wants to donate may send checks to the Police Honor Guard fund, Linda French, 69 Andover Road, Rumford, ME 04276.

French made her announcement during the public comment section of the selectmen’s meeting. Following a challenge by former Selectman Eugene Boivin that the meeting may have been illegally called, the meeting was canceled.