While law enforcement agencies frequently warn residents about scams where it appears police are asking for money, this time some area agencies are advising the public an appeal is the real deal.

Tioga and Delaware County Sheriff’s Departments are among those letting residents know they will soon get a letter asking to join the New York State Sheriff’s Institute as an honorary member.

Kathy Whyte/ WNBF News
Kathy Whyte/ WNBF News
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The $25 tax-deductible gift goes toward the Sheriff’s Summer Camp on Keuka Lake.

Donors get a membership card, a bumper sticker and a window decal as well as a one-year subscription to the NYSSI newsletter.

If you don’t get a letter, you can sign up online for membership at sherifsinstitute.org, click on “Make a Donation” and select the “Membership” option.

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The children who benefit from the Sheriff's organization are economically disadvantaged and otherwise would not be able to enjoy a summer camp experience.

Each year, up to 840 children from across New York State attend the camp at no cost to their families.

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