It took place Tuesday night at the Target store on Everett Mall Way.
“We want to create a memorable night for children who might not otherwise experience the Holiday Season.
It’s such an amazing event not only for these children and their families, but for the police officers as well.
It’s also an opportunity to create a positive, trusting relationship between children and local law enforcement.” said event organizer Det. Jamie French.
“This great feat couldn’t happen without donations, volunteers, police officers, and Target.”
At times it was hard to tell who was having more fun at Heroes and Helpers, the kids or the cops.
Officers from Everett Police were joined by deputies from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Mill Creek Police Department.
The Everett Gospel Mission and local DSHS office arranged for more than six dozen kids to pair with an officer for a shopping trip through Target.
Amy is a single mom of three kids. A 12 year old boy, 10 year old girl and 3 month old boy. Currently without a home they are staying at the Everett Gospel Mission.
“For us to be able to see just how much we are alike is great…they treated my kids like they were their own,” she said. “To interact with the police in such a stress-free, positive way is wonderful and an experience we will remember for a long time.”
“It’s good to be able to help kids in another way,” said an Everett Police officer returning to make another trip with a family. “They get to see us in a positive light and not taking mom or dad away.”
This is the second year for Heroes & Helpers, also known as Shop with a Cop in other communities.
It is sponsored by the Everett Police Officers Association and Everett Target.
This event is funded purely by donations from police officers, civilian employees, family members of local police officers, and their friends.
Here are some MyEverettNews.com photos from tonight’s event.
Click on the photo to enlarge.
December 13, 2016
Police Blotter