The Burbank Police Department and Target Stores are working together this holiday season under their “Heroes & Helpers” program, after receiving a $2,000.00 grant from Target, to assist in youth outreach in the community.
Kids check out during Burbank Police Departments and Targets ‘Shop with a Cop’ (Photo by Ross A. Benson)
Last week, Burbank Police Officers, Police Cadets, and Police Explorers teamed up with 40 children identified through programs by the Family Service Agency, Burbank Boys and Girls Club, and Burbank Boxing Club. The teams shopped together at the Burbank Target store and purchase items for the upcoming holiday season.
Often, children purchase items for everyone in their family but have to be encouraged by the officers to purchase a present of their own.
This event helps to foster strong relationships between the community and law enforcement officials, by pairing police officers with a youth in need to shop for holiday gifts for the teens’ families.
After the shopping has concluded, the children and their parent/guardian were invited to police headquarters, where they were provided a meal and tour of the police station.
Target sponsored Shop with a Cop at Burbank Target. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)
Sergio Valenzuela , Burbank Police officer Cindy Guillen, Steve Harpst and Danny Garcia checking the goodies they bought for family. (Photo by Ross A. Benson )
Checking out during Targets ‘Shop with a Cop’. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)
Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse speaks to the gathered youths, during dinner that was served following there ‘Shop with a Cop’ event.(Photo by Ross A. Benson)
- (Photo by Ross A. Benson)
