Shop with a Cop canceled, Toys for Tots a go

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PAGE – Page Police Department will not participate in The Reach Foundation’s Shop with A Cop program this year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Page PD posted on its Facebook page: “We hope that by next year we can work with the community to keep this program going.”

The Page Public Library’s 13th annual Toys for Tots program is active and working to fill the need. Library Manager Debbie Winlock said, “The need has increased by a little over 50% from last year. Every year the library partners with Flagstaff Toys for Tots to provide toys to kids in Page and the surrounding area.” 

Winlock said, “In normal times the library would host a Toys for Tots party with special guest Santa Clause and our very own (U.S.) Marine, Levi Tappan. The party included gingerbread house making, pizza, and a picture with Santa Clause.”

The library this year has about 15 volunteers. They help collect, package and distribute toys to children.  Winlock said, “Two of our volunteers are teens that have been with Toys for Tots for over six years.  Alanna Winlock began volunteering eight years ago by being an elf, helping Santa Clause give out toys.

“Aaliyah Henderson started six years ago, helping with the Toys for Tots party. Now they both help organize, package and distribute toys. Especially now, it is important for teens to volunteer. It gives them purpose in these uncertain times.” 

Winlock said, research has shown that teens who engage in community service are more responsible with higher self-esteem and resilience. Volunteering helps the teens gain new skills necessary for the job market such as leadership, communication skills, dependability, time management and decision making.

She added, “To our teens: We believe we can change the world if we work together and nothing has been more fulfilling than working side-by-side with you. You are unique, selfless individuals, thank you for being so passionate about making the world a better place. Keep it up, and you’ll surely make change happen.”

The library staff thanks all volunteers, business, and individuals who help make a meaningful and measurable impact to the families they serve.

People can donate a toy at one of the drop locations: Lake Powell Furniture, The Chamber, Courtyard by Marriott, Lake Powell Ford, Page Public Library, and the Bank of the West. Toys will be distributed through Christmas Eve. For more information call the library at (928) 645-4270.    

When news of the Shop with A Cop cancellation circulated, one grassroots effort stepped up to help.

Allison Harriman said, “I saw that the police department wasn’t able to do ‘Shop with a Cop’ this year and I know that really helped me when I was a kid. So, I messaged Jessica Bills and we got to work.

“She set up an ‘Amazon Wish List’ with affordable toys so people could purchase them there. We have a couple families we know need help .... We will do all we can to make sure everyone gets help.”

To view the Amazon Wish List created by Jessica Bills visit shorturl.at/fBEO3