A cherished West Chester Police Department holiday tradition just became even more meaningful for local law enforcement professionals and the community they’re sworn to serve.
The annual Kids ‘N Cops program pairs children with police officers for one special night of holiday shopping. Officers volunteered off duty time Thursday evening to make spirits bright at West Chester Meijer on Tylersville Road, where the store covered costs of purchases at the register.
This year, West Chester Police dedicated Kids ‘N Cops in memory of John Hunkler. John served more than 50 years on the West Chester Fire and Police departments before retiring in 2015. He passed away September 13, 2023 at the age of 79. John is fondly remembered in West Chester, Ohio for his lasting impact as a WCPD School Resource Officer, during which time he founded the Kids ‘N Cops program.
Kids ‘N Cops is organized by West Chester Police SRO Jeff Newman, who works with Lakota Local Schools to select several families that could use a lift this time of year. Side by side, kids and cops go up and down the aisles, filling carts and checking items off gift lists. Before loading up and heading home to settle down for a long winter’s nap, all participants gather at the dinner table and break bread together.
Members of the Hunkler family were present December 12, 2024 to receive a memorial plaque and help restart the tradition anew.
The John Hunkler Memorial Kids ‘N Cops Shopping Event is not possible without support from Meijer, West Chester Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, local restaurants that donate meals and the West Chester FOP Lodge 186. Special thanks to these partners and all those who give of their time and resources to make this program happen each year.
Merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy New Year!
Connect with West Chester Police at www.WestChesterOH.org/Police.