West Cook News

The Town of Cicero held its annual "Shop with a Cop" event on December 21 at Walmart, bringing together local police officers and children from the community. The day began with breakfast, allowing officers and children to connect before embarking on a shopping experience where officers assisted children in selecting items from their wish lists. This initiative aims to foster trust and build positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.

Deputy Schullo, a Cicero police officer involved in the program for 18 years, highlighted the support from President Larry Dominick and the town board. He stated, “With the support of President Larry Dominick and the town board, we’ve been able to give back to the community and ensure kids in need have a special Christmas. This year, thanks to increased donations, we’re at a record high with 40 children participating.”

Each child was paired with an officer and given a Walmart gift card. Deputy Schullo emphasized the importance of these interactions: “It starts with the children knowing that the police are good guys,” he said. “That’s the stepping stone to building a great community.”

Guy Lambesis, Walmart's Cicero store manager, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the event for five years: “This is our fifth year hosting,” he said. “The employees get so excited about this—they’ve been preparing for weeks. This store has become the busiest Walmart in the Midwest because of this incredible community.”

Community sponsors such as ExxonMobil, Alden Manor, AB Current Technologies, McDonald’s, and MFS Financial played significant roles in supporting the event. Superintendent of Police Tom Boyle acknowledged their contributions: “Without their support, we couldn’t make this happen. This event allows us to bring joy to children and families while strengthening community bonds.”

Superintendent Boyle further remarked on its impact: “This is one of the greatest community outreach events we do,” he said. “It’s all positive, all the time. And that’s what makes it so special.”

President Larry Dominick underscored its significance: “It’s a great feeling to see kids’ faces light up," he noted. "Life is about helping people, and this event embodies that spirit.”

Families attending expressed gratitude for this opportunity during challenging times. One mother shared her appreciation: “My kids were so excited to wake up and come here," she said. "This means so much to us during a hard time."

For officers like Deputy Schullo, witnessing children's generosity was moving: “Seeing kids pick out items not just for themselves but for their families—it’s incredibly moving,” he said.

The program also included surprising two shoppers by covering their bills as part of spreading holiday cheer.

The event concluded with participants gathering for photos alongside Santa Claus while extending wishes for Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.