CINCINNATI -- More than 100 local, low-income families will be able to put Christmas dinner on the table thanks to the Cincinnati Police Department Activities League and dozens of officers.
Organizers said kids from 165 families shopped with officers on Monday for their holiday meals during the “Get the Groceries” event.
During the excursion the kids also got to talk with police about their jobs and what the department does for the community.
"We all know the relationship with police and the community right now is kind of broken. I think it's a great idea that they see us in this role, that we are helpers in the community, we are just like them,” Officer Ladon Laney said.
The children also learned about nutrition and the importance of budgeting.
"It's good so you can save money so you can have more stuff and get more things,” event participant Deunta Squire said.
Kroger is a long-time partner of the program and makes contributions to the event.
During the event, officers and their youth partners shop for groceries with a budget of $100.
The officers help the children stay on budget, use coupons, and find the best value in food.
