Page 14 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2024 Everett’s first responders team up to take 39 kids holiday shopping at Target Special to The Advocate T he Everett Police Department (EPD), in collaboration with the Everett Fire Department (EFD), Cataldo Ambulance Service and Target, held the annual “Shop with Heroes” event at Target in Everett. The event, which was made possible by the use of a grant secured from Target by the Eliot Family Resource Center (EFRC) in collaboration with EPD, began at EPD headquarters, where kids and volunteers were given an escort with lights and sirens to Target to enjoy some pizza, popcorn and other foods provided by Juan of La Cantina in Revere before browsing the aisles. The 39 young shoppers were paired up with a police officer, firefighter or paramedic to begin the search for the perfect gifts to take home – and an opportunity to have a joyous holiday season. “The holidays are a special time of year and the Everett Police Department is proud to team up with the staff at Target who have always done a phenomenal job organizing and generously hosting this third annual event to share the joy of the season with some of our youngsters,” said Police Chief Paul Strong. “We are grateful for the strong partnership with Target and all of the organizations and volunteers that joined together with us to help provide this opportunity to connect with our youth and create a lasting memory they can hopefully cherish forever.” Each year, the EPD hosts initiatives, such as the fill-a-cruiser toy drive event and 25 days of gift giveaways to children throughout the month of December, to spread holiday cheer as part of the department’s commitment to make meaningful and lasting connections with the community. Volunteers from the Everett Police Department, Everett Fire Department and Cataldo Ambulance Service joined together with Target staff to host the third annual Shop with Heroes event. The youngsters and volunteers were given an escort from the EPD headquarters to Target by the EPD and EFD and Cataldo Ambulance Service. A volunteer from the Everett Fire Department and a young shopper having fun shopping Everett Police Chief Paul Strong and his young shopping partner picking out the perfect toy
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