Los Angeles Police Department officials will play Santa Claus and elves, and distribute gift cards to local kids Thursday at a Target Store in South Los Angeles as part of what’s called the Heroes & Helpers program.
The Christmas giving effort is sponsored by Target, other businesses, charity organizations and first responders.
About 60 children are expected to be on hand as an LAPD commander and captain are joined at the Target store at 3535 S. La Cienega Boulevard by personnel from the LAPD’s Southwest Station and representatives from Felix Chevrolet and Honda of Downtown Los Angeles for the 6 a.m. event.
The Heroes & Helpers program matches local first responders with a nonprofit organization in their neighborhood, which together apply for a grant from Target, according to the LAPD.
“Target approved $2,000 to host a holiday shopping event with children living in under-resourced areas,” according to an LAPD statement announcing the giveaway.
Heroes & Helpers events are hosted in store with Target employees and police officers, and aim to give children a uniquely positive experience.
Donations from Honda of Downtown Los Angeles and Felix Chevrolet allowed for more kids to participate in this year’s event in South L.A., police said.
Among those expected to attend are LAPD Operations-South Bureau Commander Ryan Whiteman and Southwest Area Patrol Commanding Officer Captain Letisia Ruiz.