The annual Crime Alert Berks County holiday Shop-with-a-Cop returned to Boscov’s North in Muhlenberg Township Thursday evening.
Twenty-five elementary school students from various Berks County public and parochial schools were selected to participate in the event.
Each student received a $100 Boscov’s gift card to buy presents for family members. A contingent of 50 law enforcement officers from departments covering the students’ school districts, as well as personnel from the district attorney’s, coroners’ and sheriff’s departments volunteered to escort and assist the children in their gift selection process.
South Heidelberg Police Chief Leon Grim recruited the law enforcement volunteers.
The evening began with a photo with Santa Claus, before being paired off with an officer to begin the shopping adventure.
“We value this opportunity every year to help children fulfill their Christmas wish lists for their families,” said Rick Periandi, president of Crime Alert Berks County.
“This gives each child the chance to experience the joy of giving, so important at this time of year, as well as to understand that police officers are kind and are always there to provide a helping hand.”
CAB Vice President Chris Nein organizes this annual event. “This is something I look forward to working on every year,” he said, “and I particularly salute Boscov’s for everything they contribute to this annual event.”
Boscov’s, he said, provides half of the gift cards valued at $100.
Gift wrapping service were provided by United Way of Berks County volunteers.
