MEIJER INC. SPONSERED SHOP WITH A HERO, DECEMBER 9, 2009
It has been customary for Meijer Inc. to provide a Christmas for disadvantaged children and their families each year. This year was no different, with the exception of there being many more in need and the needs being more crucial. The downturn in the economy has hit the Flint and surrounding areas harder than most of the rest of the country.
This wonderful event is accomplished through the donations from Meijer Inc. and the Burton Police, Burton Fire, Genesee Township Police, Genesee Township Fire, Flint Police, Flint Fire and the Michigan State Police agencies from the area. None of this could have been accomplished if it were not for the many employees of the Center Road, Meijer Inc. and the warm and understanding manager, Habib Atallah. The shopping experience takes place each December and involves giving each child a $100.00 gift card and having them shop with a local police officer or firefighter. Surprisingly the one stipulation that must be followed is, the children must buy at least one gift for themselves. You might think this would not be a problem, but there are many of the children each year that would spend the whole $100.00 on others in their family.
These Heros (police officers and firefighters) find this to be an experience that truly epitomizes the spirit of Christmas. Volunteers are never difficult to find and in most cases it’s almost a case of a lottery system to pick those who wish to shop with the kids. There is nothing more inspiring than seeing the happiness engendered during this event.
After all, Christmas is, and should be, about the children, since the celebration is about the birth of a Child, born in a manger!
To view photos of the event, click on the following.
Lynn Hill and Bailey - Bailey was the winner of the door prize drawing.
Habib Atallah, Trina Clark and Teine Deal - Store manager, Assistant to the manager and Fire Department Senior Clerk Typist. These are the folks who did all the work to make this event possible.
Trina Clark, Fire Captain Chris Metropoulos and Council Person Duane Haskins - Discussing the success of the event.
Ken Baker and William - Ken is a Battalion Chief on the Burton Fire Department and you can tell from the smile he's enjoying the experience.
Bob Johnson - Bob is a Deputy Chief on the Burton Fire Department and is more or less the department photographer.
Kyle King and DeVin - Kyle is a Burton Firefighter and a willing volunteer.
Matt Raysin and Keanna - Matt is a Lieutenant with the Burton Fire Department and felt blessed to be able to shop with this little princess.
Linda Tamez and Sage - Linda is the Evidence Technician for the Burton Police Department and loves volunteering for this event every year.
Everyone waiting for Santa - The entire group is excited and getting to know one another.
Battalion Chief Ken Baker and William, Lieutenant Matt Raysin and Keanna, Ken (Irish) McCormack and Donovan - It's evident from the smiles that this is a joyful occassion.
Linda Tamez, Amanda Eads and Tyaijia - Amanda is an officer on the Burton Police Department and this is her first "Shop With A Hero" experience.