kids to break down barriers , form bonds , create trust , and contradict the negative perception of public safety .
AZ Barbeque made sure every child present was well-fed , and Le Mars made sure all kids had sweet donut treats for dessert . PLEA charities provided each child with necessary craft supplies to make their own Christmas ornaments . Phoenix PD provided entertainment and education through exciting K9 demonstrations with their K9 unit . The canines wowed the kids with their apprehension techniques and listening skills !
They were both surprised to see how many children were being helped and the sheer size of the event . We could not make this program possible without all the volunteers and sponsors .
We are already planning and preparing for next year . Thank you to all the committee members and officers who participated , and happy holidays .
When Blue Santa arrived in his modified sleigh ( which is also sometimes used as the Phoenix PD helicopter ) and shouted “ Ho ! Ho ! Ho ! Merry Christmas !” with a belly laugh you could feel at the North Pole , the children erupted with cheers and the excitement level was off the charts . Blue Santa and his Helper Elf greeted children outside and inside the store , and the shopping began !
We were able to give each kid $ 175 to spend on themselves , to indulge , and to be kids . They were able to focus on themselves , pick out things that would bring them joy , and actually leave the store with those items . Thank you to the officers who helped each kid complete their shopping , as well as the thirty Kohls volunteers from stores near and far who gave up their time to start their day with us at this event . It would not have been possible without you .
Kids were given the chance to wrap gifts before they went home so they could spread joy themselves , in their own lives . Photos were taken with Blue Santa , as well as with SWAT vehicles , undercover vehicles , and even a Police Ice Cream truck ! Once the event was done , Blue Santa and his Helper Elf packed up their modified sleigh and went back to the North Pole to finish getting ready for Christmas .
Additional thanks are owed to the current Kohl ’ s store manager , Claudia , and the former Kohl ’ s store manager , Jesus . These Kohl ’ s team members attended meetings , coordinated the event , and allowed us free rein to take over their entire store . Perhaps most importantly , every employee that was there volunteering their time stated they wanted to return next year , and the Kohl ’ s leadership team has made their continued support clear . The looks of joy on the children ’ s faces was amazing ; everyone wants to come back for more !
I must thank our sponsors for this event . Our title sponsor was QuikTrip , and we truly value the partnership that has grown with their support of our programs . A1 Garage Door Service with their returning sponsorship were happy to bring out volunteers and media coverage in true holiday spirit . A1 Garage Door Service and their employees share the same philosophy of providing assistance to children and families in need . Sanderson Lincoln is a new sponsor this year , and two of their Managers , Adam and Francisco , came to volunteer .
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