On Tuesday the Blaine Police Department hosted the 14th annual Heroes for Helpers event. “It’s great being here,” said Blaine police officer Pete Noll. The kids each received a donated $200 gift card that they used to buy presents. Most were ecstatic and grateful. This toy story always has a happy ending.
“Got some toys for me and my family members” said Tyler, a student at Johnsville Elementary School in Blaine. “I’m excited to see their reaction. Just trying to keep calm on the inside.”
“I have people who have participated in the program six years ago and they remember the officers,” said, Orin Christensen, a Blaine police officer. “I have one that remembers me specifically.”
Bonding time
This magical day was made possible by North Metro police departments, firefighters and EMT’s. It was an opportunity for people like Noll to bond with Tylan while they pushed a shopping cart around Target.
“Tylan is great,” Noll said. “Great personality. Super outgoing. Everything he’s doing for his family, siblings, he’s got a bunch of siblings, mom and dad. Making sure they are going to have a great Christmas. Phenomenal.”
“He’s a good person,” Tylan said. “I really enjoy being here with him right now.”
The children came from seven local elementary schools in the North Metro. The Blaine PD paired students with a “Hero,” who could be a firefighter, police officer, sheriffs’ deputy, state trooper or a paramedic.
Said Christensen: “For the most part I think the social workers do a good job of picking the kids that they feel would most need this type of event.”
Spreading joy
Each Hero picked the student up from school and brought them to Target. From there, the kids could grab anything within their budget.
Spreading joy is the goal at this event and clearly it was mission accomplished.
“I think it’s good therapy for us, these types of community events we do in the city of Blaine,” Christensen said. “It’s a positive interaction with people.”
When the kids finished the shopping spree, each Hero spent time with them wrapping their gifts and toys.
