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On December 14, 2024, the annual "Shop with a Cop" event spread joy and holiday spirit throughout Lake County. Held at the Madison Walmart, this cherished tradition brought together 20 students from Mentor, Riverside, Fairport Harbor, Painesville City, and Perry school districts with local law enforcement officers for a day of shopping, connection, and celebration.

The event, made possible through a Walmart grant secured by the Village of Kirtland Hills Police Department and coordinated by Lt. Jeff Bilicic, began with a festive parade, complete with lights, sirens, and greetings from the Grinch and gingerbread characters. Officers from multiple agencies, including the Lake County Sheriff's Office and Ohio State Highway Patrol, partnered with students to help them select gifts for their families.

Kristin Llewellyn, our Family, and Community Liaison, worked closely with Walmart and law enforcement to ensure the event’s success. “This is an incredible opportunity for students to connect with our officers in a positive and meaningful way,” she said. Jennifer Felker, Superintendent of the Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve, praised the event as a testament to the power of community collaboration. “Through partnerships like this, we provide meaningful experiences that strengthen bonds between schools, law enforcement, and families,” she stated.

Generous donations ensured families could enjoy a meal and take home groceries to support their holiday celebrations. The ESC of the Western Reserve extends heartfelt thanks to the officers, Walmart associates, and all contributors who made this event unforgettable.

The "Shop with a Cop" tradition continues to foster goodwill, community connections, and holiday magic in Lake County.

Click here to read what Sheriff Frank Leonbruno shared about this special day.

Click here to see the Perry Village Police Department's post about the event.

Celebrate the season with the ESC of the Western Reserve! Our December 2024 Newsletter highlights Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month, Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and Grief Awareness Week, offering tips and resources to support your students and families during the holidays.

Please share these valuable resources with your students and families to promote a safe, supportive, and joyful holiday season!

We were thrilled to have New Day Cleveland visit Unique Like Me for their Shop Small segment! Check out the feature to see how our shop highlights incredible products crafted with care by individuals with unique abilities. Watch the full segment here: Unique Like Me on New Day Cleveland and discover how shopping small can make a big difference!

Our Job Training students decorated a Polar Express-themed tree for the Geauga County Library Foundation's Winter Wonderland of Trees Silent Auction. Many of the decorations were handmade by the students. To view the ESCWR tree and others up for auction, visit https://givebutter.com/c/p0HTvz/auction.

The Education Service Center of the Western Reserve (ESCWR) and local school superintendents are joining forces for the annual “Day of Giving,” a community event addressing food insecurity and supporting families in need. The initiative is scheduled for November 21st from noon to 1 p.m. at the Salvation Army Painesville Corps and emphasizes collaboration among education and community leaders.

In addition to meals, ESCWR volunteers will distribute educational kits containing books and learning activities, for children, focusing on early learners through middle school students. Superintendent Jennifer Felker highlighted the event's purpose as more than providing meals, stating it fosters community connection and joy during the holiday season. Click here to read the full article on the News-Herald!