Conneaut cops shop with needy families

By MARK TODD - Staff Writer - mtodd@starbeacon.com
Star Beacon

December 14, 2008 12:33 am

— CONNEAUT — Santa Claus swapped his red hat and reindeer for a badge and police cruiser Saturday morning in Conneaut.
More than two dozen needy families did some Christmas shopping Saturday with the help of Conneaut Fraternal Order of Police 51 and the officers' "Shop With A Cop®" program at the Big Kmart in the Gateway Plaza shopping center.
Families from Conneaut, Ashtabula, Kingsville, Pierpont and other locations filled the store to pick out gifts courtesy the FOP 51. "This year we assisted 28 families and their 73 children," said Sgt. Steve Gerics, FOP president.
Not surprisingly, most of the activity was in the toy department. Aisles were crammed with carts and youngsters picking out presents for brothers and sisters — and maybe one for themselves.
Morgan Maldonado found her treasure, a Hannah Montana doll, and wouldn't let it go. "Is this want you want?" she was asked. Yes, she nodded, a big smile on her face.
Fundraisers during the year help finance the program, Gerics said. Also, the Big Kmart discounts the merchandise to assist the cause, he said.
"We really appreciate the support from (donors) and the Big Kmart," Gerics said.
This year, the officers collected enough money to give each child between $80 and $100 to spend on reasonable gifts. Names of deserving families are obtained through various charitable organizations, Gerics said.
"We try to pick different families each year," he said.
Officers assist the shoppers, while other police department employees help cashiers pack bags. Conneaut has had a "Shop With A Cop®" program for 20 years, and Gerics expects it to continue for years to come.
"We have fun doing it," he said.