Staff Report

ROCKFORD – The Rockford Police Department and GiGi’s Playhouse are teaming up for the fifth
year in a row for “Holidays & Heroes,” Sunday, Dec. 8, at Meijer’s, 2013 McFarland Road.

Officers will shop side-by-side with nearly 30 local families to them find their perfect gifts while
Meijer’s will donate gift cards to families who utilize GiGi’s Playhouse.

GiGi’s Playhouse provides free educational and career-development programs for individuals with Down syndrome.

“Officers who volunteer at this event year after year have built lasting relationships with
the families,” Assistant Deputy Chief Mike Dalke said. “They’ve formed a bond
that really speaks to the passion and commitment we have for serving all members of the
community.”

Holidays and Heroes runs from 1 to 3 p.m.