TWIN LAKES, Wis. — Dozens of smiling children filled local stores this week as the Twin Lakes Police Department and the Twin Lakes and Randall Fire Departments hosted the 21st annual “Shop With A Hero” holiday tradition, giving selected students a chance to experience the magic of Christmas with the real-life heroes who protect their community.
A total of 24 children — 12 from Randall School and 12 from Lakewood School — were chosen by school staff for their kindness, good behavior, and positive character. Each child was paired with a police officer or firefighter and spent the day shopping for gifts for their families, friends, and themselves. The goal, organizers said, is not only to help families during the holidays, but to give kids meaningful one-on-one time with public-safety professionals in a fun, positive setting.
According to organizers, the day was filled with laughter, excitement, and plenty of holiday cheer as the children carefully selected gifts and proudly checked items off their lists. Officers, firefighters, and school volunteers helped them find presents, wrap them, and share in the joy of giving.
(Twin Lakes Police Facebook)
Local businesses again played a crucial role in making the longtime event happen. Twin Lakes community sponsors stepped up to provide funding, resources, and support to ensure that every participating child had the opportunity to shop. Organizers also expressed special gratitude to Officer Phelps, who took the lead in coordinating this year’s effort and helped ensure every detail was handled smoothly.
Volunteers from both schools, police department families, and members of the fire departments also spent the day assisting the young shoppers, helping wrap gifts and encouraging the kids as they celebrated what many described as their favorite day of the year.
Officials emphasized that “Shop With A Hero” has always been about community — strengthening relationships between children and first responders, reminding families they are supported, and highlighting the generosity of neighbors who rally behind local youth each holiday season. After 21 years, the program has become a beloved Twin Lakes tradition.
Organizers said they were moved by the smiles and excitement they saw and are already looking forward to next year’s 22nd annual event, confident that the holiday spirit and sense of unity shown this year will continue to grow.
