The police are here to serve and protect, but their job isn't solely dedicated to fighting crime. In many ways, they serve their communities by answering the call of those who simply need a helping hand.

Earlier this year, two officers likely saved the life of a 95-year-old veteran when they installed a new air conditioning unit after his central air broke down.

Officers of the law take an oath of honor to serve even the smallest among us and one night, that oath applied to a little, lost kitten.

Say hello to little Kelsey, this sweet, motherless kitten who was lost in the streets of Lakeland, Florida when Officer Cardin of the Lakeland Police Department (LPD) spotted her under a lamp post.

The good cop was working his usual night shift when he noticed a frightened kitten hiding at the base of a lamppost. She was terrified and trying to find a place to hide, but the officer knew that she probably wouldn't last long on the streets.

Read how little Kelsey's life changed in a big way on the next page!

So, he scooped the little furball up and brought her to the station.

"It was early in the shift so he brought her in, outfitted a records box and put her safely inside the kennel at the station," LakelandPD said on Facebook.

The sweet little kitten snuggled into her warm nesting area and had a much deserved nap. Later in the evening, she caught the eye - and heart - of Sgt Wallace.

The burly cop couldn't let her spend the night alone, so he lifted her up for some sweet kitten cuddles. It's hard to tell who fell first, but judging by these pictures - it was love at first sight!

LakelandPD explains that it didn't take long for little Kelsey to warm up to her new role as Sgt Wallace's partner - even if she did fall asleep on her first night on the job.

At the end of their shift, Sgt. Wallace officially adopted little feline officer Kelsey. Not only does she have a new partner, but she's now got a new, loving home!

Well done, little officer!

Do you have an uplifting story about emergency responders? We'd love to hear it!

[h/t LoveMeow / LakelandPD]