The 20th annual Greater Beloit Shop With A Hero event has been cancelled this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, according to Town of Beloit Police Chief Ron Northrop.
“The committee decided to cancel it this year, but we are looking at all options going forward,” Northrop said.
For nearly two decades, City of Beloit and Town of Beloit first responders, both police and fire staff, have come together for a day of Christmas shopping for families in need.
Last year, the event helped over 200 children pick out gifts for loved ones. Last year also marked the largest Shop With A Hero outing in the event’s history thanks to the Wisconsin National Guard sending members down to team up with kids. “We’ve had such great community involvement over the years,” Northrop said. “The whole COVID-19 situation has really hurt departments across the country regarding public outreach programs and this is no different. We’re disappointed.”