Creating Positive Connections
The 'Shop with a Cop' event is not just about shopping; it's about forging healthy relationships between police officers and children. As Heather Salazar, the organizer, mentioned, the goal is to create an environment where positive interactions can occur. This allows the community to give back and enables police officers to relax and enjoy time with the kids while also providing for those in need.Sponsoring Over 100 Kids
Every year, this event sponsors an impressive number of over 100 kids with a $100 Walmart gift card. Each child is paired with a police officer from different departments that cover Ingham County. This partnership ensures that every kid has a dedicated officer by their side to guide them through the shopping process. It gives them a sense of security and makes the shopping experience truly special.Helping Kids in Need
For these kids, the 'Shop with a Cop' event is a lifeline. It helps them overcome the challenges they face during the holiday season and provides them with the joy of choosing gifts for themselves or others. The event not only meets their immediate needs but also leaves a lasting impact on their lives. It shows them that there are people in the community who care and are willing to help.Building a Stronger Community
By bringing together police officers and children, this event contributes to building a stronger community. It promotes understanding and trust between different groups and shows that cooperation can lead to positive change. The memories created during this event will stay with the kids and the police officers for a long time, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.Founder's Perspective: Marty Postlethwait
Marty Postlethwait, the founder and executive director of the Shadow Buddies Foundation, is a mother to a child with multiple congenital birth defects. She understands firsthand the battles, tribulations, and stress that families face throughout the year. "It's an amazing thing we get to do. Even this afternoon, we can take the stress off their plates," she said. "These families are so grateful and full of gratitude just because we can offer them this opportunity. Some have driven an hour to be here, and it's an event we hope to continue for years to come."Medical Conditions and Holiday Relief
Each child on the flight is dealing with some form of medical condition that affects their daily lives. They take medications daily and visit doctors regularly. Some may even be in a wheelchair or have visual impairments. But on Saturday, for a few hours during the holiday season, they forget all about their ailments. It's a time when they can enjoy the festivities without worry.Some children were able to let out their frustrations during a snowball fight. The cotton balls were thrown from all angles, and no one was safe. This moment of playfulness added to the joy of the occasion.Volunteer Efforts and Community Support
The pilots and flight attendants have donated their time to make this event possible. Not a single person here is being paid; they are doing it out of their hearts, love, and the joy of giving back. This year, partners like the FBI, TSA, and Kansas City Police Department also played a crucial role in ensuring each child had a safe, playful, and exciting time.In a world where we can be anything, being kind is essential. As Marty Postlethwait said, "In a world where you can be anything, be kind. I think [Saturday] we see all the kindness in the world." This event is a beautiful example of community coming together to bring joy to those in need.Empowering Pediatric Care through Community Support
Fundraising Highlights
The fundraiser was a huge success, raising an impressive $255,612 to support Wellstar Children's. This significant sum will directly contribute to the well-being of pediatric patients and their families. The continuous support from the community has been crucial in making this possible.
Christmas music and cheers filled the halls of Wellstar Children's Hospital for three days, from Thursday until Saturday. iHeart Radio and News 12 played a vital role by providing 72 hours of airtime and broadcasting live from the hospital. This exposure helped raise awareness and encouraged more people to contribute.
Hospital's Impact
Wellstar Children's is a not-for-profit hospital with a team of specialized doctors who can handle a wide range of pediatric conditions, including the most complex ones. Each year, more than 75,000 kids seek treatment here. The annual fundraiser allows individuals at home to be a part of this life-saving work and make miracles happen for these families.
Dr. Valera Hudson, the Pediatrician-in-Chief of Wellstar Children's Hospital, expressed her gratitude for the community's support. She emphasized that without philanthropy, no children's hospital can thrive. The funds raised stay directly at the hospital, ensuring that every penny is used to help the children in need.
Supporting the Hospital
Although the telethon is over, the support for the hospital continues. You can contribute at any time to help make a difference in the lives of these young patients. Every donation counts and can have a profound impact on their recovery and well-being.
The Children's Hospital of Georgia relies on the generosity of the community to provide the best possible care. By supporting this hospital, you are becoming a part of something greater and helping to create a better future for pediatric patients.