The Clermont Police Department participated in the fifth annual Heroes and Helpers event on December 21 at Target-Clermont. The program is a Target corporate event that each year helps children across the country shop with a first-responder for Christmas. It’s an experience where families with less fortunate children will have an opportunity to shop with a “hero”. They are also encouraged to purchase presents for themselves, their parents and siblings.
“What makes our particular event so special is that the children are selected by our very own officers as they serve the community,” said Officer Michelle Rogers, a member of the Community Policing Unit. “Clermont Police Officers, along with city firefighters and paramedics, help make this a memorable experience for the children.”
Target and local community members donated the funds to help make the shopping experience possible. After shopping, McDonald’s Restaurant in Clermont provided lunch for the children.
This was the fifth year that The Clermont Police Department has participated in the Heroes and Helpers program. About 60 children participated through the grant provided by Target.
This year, the department was able to sponsor 10 additional children for the event due to generous donations from members of the community. Two of the 10 children were sponsored by The Yayas of Kings Ridge, a women’s community group. The remaining eight were covered with a generous donation from Clermont Radiology.
“I’m so glad we can help,” said Charla Hurst, director of marketing at Clermont Radiology. In addition to sponsoring eight children, the team also donated over $500 worth of toys for the department’s Stuff a Cruiser program to assist officers in meeting the needs of struggling families over the holiday season.
“We look forward to this event every year and are truly thankful for the sponsorships from our community partners this year”, Chief Charles Broadway.
