(PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT … All the children, first responders and Walmart employees piled in for a group photo during the start of this year’s Shop with a First Responder.
ON THEIR WAY … First responders took all of the children to Walmart in their emergency vehicles for this year’s Shop with a First Responder Day in Fulton County. Children were treated to the drive, along with lights and sirens.
SHOPPING … Children stand with Fulton County Sheriff Deputy Marvin Zumfelde inside Walmart while on their way to find items to purchase during the Shop with a First Responder Day in Fulton County.
ON THE HUNT … Members of the Metamora-Amboy Fire Department walk with one of the children participating in this year’s Shop with a First Responder as he is on the lookout for items to purchase.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The saying goes, Tis the season for Christmas Cheer, and that cheer was once again handed out in spades. This past Saturday, December 7th, approximately 59 children were able to be served by the program that helps ensure children throughout the county get presents this year.
Hosted by the Wauseon Police Department, all first responder type organizations are invited to come and help shop with a child.
Like what used to be known as Shop with a Cop, Shop with a First Responder allows all organizations to participate.
All areas of the county participated once again this year, with police, fire, EMS from each area sending several people out to help.
Additionally, organizations like Life Flight, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Ohio Investigative Unit were also present to pair up with a child.
Children were each given a packet that included a $125 card from Walmart, and a donated gift card to a local restaurant.
Before heading to the store though, families needed to check in and get ready for a drawing. This year, the department had a drawing for two bikes, two scooters, and some additional restaurant cards.
After the drawings, it was time for the kids to head on down to Walmart with their first responder. Children packed into the emergency vehicles and were driven to the store with lights on and sirens blaring.
When they arrived, Santa was there to greet everyone before meeting in the grocery entrance for a group picture.
During the event, Wauseon Police Chief Kevin Chittenden explained that this event is the department’s largest community outreach program, and that it is an important part of the community.
“This is very important. It is our biggest community outreach program we do. Through all the fundraising, applications received, coordinating with other agencies, it’s a several months long process. It really does have a big impact on the community and the children always end up happy with the gifts.”
The Wauseon Police Department runs the Shop with a First Responder program with donations made to the event. So be on the lookout next year for ways you can submit a donation.