Cops and Kids Event: Shop with a Cop

Last Saturday, North Ridgeville Police Department joined with eight other agencies to spread extra cheer to families around Lorain County for the annual Cops and Kids event. The event partners law enforcement members with children and families who could use some extra holiday cheer. The day includes warm meals, crafts, social interaction, a shopping spree, and concludes with individual visits and gifts from Santa. The families go home with full bellies, warm hearts, toys, gifts, clothes, necessities, gift cards for groceries, and memories for a lifetime.

Thanks to charitable donations from citizens, local businesses and Meijer in Avon, the event is free for participating children and all gift cards, food costs and supplies are covered. This year, 17 members of NRPD volunteered and brought 23 children from our community. The nine participating Lorain County agencies took a total of 63 kids! That’s 63 smiling faces that will hold a happy memory in their hearts and ours!

“I’ve been a part of this event for over 10 years and absolutely love it! If I can make a little positive difference in a kid’s life, well, that’s what I’m going to do!” – Frank Trampush, School Resource Officer and organizer of the event.

“Officer Trampush did a great job organizing this event. It’s nice to see the joy in the kids’ faces, that will have a better Christmas because of this program.” – Greg Petek, Captain

“I’ve had a blessed and fortunate life. I think it’s important that we help people in our community who may not have the same opportunities we had.” – Calvin Cross, School Resource Officer

“It was amazing. It’s always amazing. The kids had fun, and we had fun. It’s just a heart-warming experience for everyone!” – Beth Moher, Records Custodian

A huge thank you to Officer Trampush for coordinating on behalf of NRPD for the last six years, Avon PD’s Sergeant Ruple for organizing and leading the efforts to make this event possible, Police Departments of: Avon, Avon Lake, Sheffield Village, Sheffield Lake, Lorain County Sheriff’s Office, Lorain County Metroparks, Grafton Village, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Meijer’s in Avon, and of course, Santa Claus for his years of generosity!