Several children and families in Cicero will have a merrier Christmas this year thanks to the police department’s annual “Shop with a Cop” program on Dec. 12.
This year, dozens of officers from the Cicero Police Department aided more than 30 families that would likely not have had an enjoyable holiday. Police walked with energetic children – bubbling with excitement – as they set out in Target on Cicero Avenue to choose the toys and other gifts that made their wish lists. Local businesses and organizations funded this year’s program.
Superintendent Jerry Chlada, Jr., said the program received donations from Target, Mobil Oil on Cicero Avenue, and Terrace Paper, among others.
“It’s important for all the children in Town to have a happy Christmas,” Chlada said. “I could not be more happy to see so many kids and their parents smile at the idea of Christmas coming to their home. Our police did a fantastic job in ensuring their happiness this year.”
Target has been the main sponsor for the “Shop with a Cop” event, opening its doors to Cicero families and police for the past several years. Chlada said he looks forward to the time where it is not necessary to hold the program, but until that day comes, “we will be there every Christmas to help as many families as we can.”
