A heartwarming tradition in Hamilton County
The Kiwanis Club of Cicero recently hosted Dustin Dixon, President of Shop For Kids (SFK), at their weekly meeting. Members learned about the remarkable impact of this community-driven organization, which has been quietly transforming lives in Hamilton County for the past 15 years.
Founded in 2009 by Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Todd Green, SFK began as a simple idea. While patrolling the streets of Northern Hamilton County, Deputy Green recognized that, despite the county’s affluence, there were families who needed a helping hand, especially during the holiday season. Partnering with his father, Bud Green, he approached local businesses for donations to take children shopping for Christmas gifts – and thus, a cherished tradition was born.
Last year, SFK raised over $12,000, providing almost 60 children with an unforgettable shopping experience
“We collaborate with organizations like Good Samaritan Network, Youth Assistance Programs, local schools, churches, and rely on word of mouth to identify families in need,” Dixon said.
Each child is paired with a law enforcement officer from the Indiana State Police, Cicero, Sheridan, and Arcadia Police Departments, with the Department of Natural Resources joining this year. Before the shopping spree, the children and their officer “elves” bond over lunch, games of ping pong, and foosball. The event culminates in an exciting police-escorted drive, complete with lights and sirens, to a local Target store.
“We make sure to understand the children’s needs by talking with parents,” Dixon said. “But the real joy for the officers is fulfilling the children’s wishes.”
“Shop For Kids has a dual mission,” Kiwanis Club of Cicero President Mark Bailey said. “It not only brings holiday cheer to children in need, but also strengthens the relationship between law enforcement and the community.”
This year’s event is set for Saturday, Dec. 7. For more information, to nominate a child, or to make a donation, please contact shopforkidshc@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/ShopForKidsHC.