This past weekend, the Hiram and Garrettsville Police Departments held their 8th annual “Shop with a Cop” Christmas Program. This worthy program enabled the a dozen families from both the Crestwood and J.A. Garfield School District make the holidays a little brighter. On Saturday morning, children brought their Christmas lists to Target in Streetsboro where they were pair up with police officers, who helped them select items for themselves and their loved ones. Also joining in to lend their shopping expertise were Garrettsville Mayor Rick Patrick and Hiram Mayor Lou Bertrand.
Once again, Target in Streetsboro hosted the event, providing coloring books, snacks and juice boxes for the children, as well as gift-wrapping supplies. “But most of all,” shared Hiram Police Chief Brian Gregory, “for partnering with us to make a special day possible for the 24 children who attended.” Chief Gregory also extended gratitude to the volunteers who gave their time to wrap the gifts, along with police officers from both departments.
“This is a very special program that we hold dear to our hearts,” Chief Gregory explained. The program began eight years ago, originated by former Hiram Police Chief Ed Samec. The program is made possible each holiday season through fundraising efforts, grants, and donations from individuals and community organizations throughout the year. After a morning of shopping and wrapping, everyone was invited back to Hiram Christian Church to enjoy a wonderful lunch, which was provided by AVI Foods and the Hiram Kiwanis.
