COMMUNITY: GEMS Shop With a Cop Fulfills Wishes

by Kent Von Der Vellen

Every December for the last seven years, children in Medina County have had the opportunity to Shop with A Cop for Christmas.

Brett Robertson, Medina County Law Enforcement Association president, said they receive between 110 to 150 recommendations from local school systems for children to participate each year.

There is no application or specific requirements to participate, and it is left up to the schools to recommend students who could benefit. Occasionally, another source will make a referral, as well.

Elementary and middle school students are recommended for the program, and it is common for older and younger siblings to be included. The program is meant to help those in need celebrate Christmas and help children become comfortable talking to and being around police officers.

Read the rest of the story about this nonprofit at https://bit.ly/3d8Am8a

Kent Von Der Vellen is a 20-year Medina resident. He has been a volunteer for various youth sports teams, is a member of the Medina Lions Club, and, with his wife, Kim, founded the Jakob F. Von Der Vellen Memorial Foundation. Contact Von Der Vellen by e-mailing Gems@BlakeHousePublishing.com or by calling 330-421-0863. Learn what other area nonprofits need by visiting Giving Hearts under the Help tab at https://www.joyofmedinacountymagazine.com/ .