PHOTOS: Youngsters Gain Christmas Smiles Thanks To Howell's Shop With A Cop

HOWELL, NJ — Ear-to-ear smiles were the order of the day as 27 Howell youngsters walked the aisles of Target to fulfill some Christmas wishes, thanks to the annual "Shop With A Cop" event.

Each child received a $50 gift card and had a Howell police officer assisting as a personal shopper during the event Thursday at Target, Police Chief Andrew J. Kudrick Jr. said in a post on Facebook. The kids were able to shop for themselves or someone else, he said.

"Once they were done shopping, they were treated to food and drinks, activities, gift wrap services, and the opportunity to interact with our police officers," he said. "A little help and happiness was brought to the children's holiday. It was an amazing event!"

Kudrick expressed gratitude to Target's corporate offices as well as Manager Chris McLaughlin and the Howell store's staff, including Dan Chritelli from the store's asset protection; the Howell PBA, which paid the remaining balance; Patrolwoman Maureen McBride, who organized the event; Howell PAL volunteers; and Jersey Mike's of Howell and Chik-Fil-A who donated the food and drinks, he said.

Anyone wishing to donate gift cards or any other new item for families in need, should see a Howell officer or feel free to drop off at headquarters, he said.

"We are a community that comes together whenever there is a need," Kudrick said. "This is what the holidays are all about. We are Howell; we are 'Committed to Community!!' "

Photos provided by Howell police, with consent of parents/guardians