More than two hundred children enjoyed the thrill and excitement of a $100 shopping spree in the city’s downtown corridor as part of United Community Corporation’s 3rd annual “Shop With a Hero” event. This year’s campaign, which was held in partnership with the City of Newark, identified 250 children who were eligible to receive a $100 donated gift card and shop for holiday gifts alongside local heroes, including police officers, firefighters, doctors nurses, EMTs, educators and community leaders. Shop With a Hero not only fosters positive relationships between local heroes and the youth but also brings the spirit of giving to Newark during the holiday season.
The campaign has grown since its inception just two years ago when it was first held inside the rotunda at Newark City Hall. This year’s event moved to the Prudential Center arena downtown to include even more children and heroes while strengthening a sense of connection and creating lifelong memories.
“This year’s ‘Shop With a Hero’ was truly exceptional,” UCC Executive Director Craig Mainor said. “Witnessing the smiles on the faces of the children as they shopped alongside our local heroes was a reminder of the profound impact we can have when we come together as a community. During this time of year, it’s not just about the presents; it’s about the priceless gift of giving back and creating lasting memories for our youth. The support from the City of Newark and our partners exemplifies the true meaning of the season – a time to uplift and bring joy to those who need it most.”
“Receiving the smallest act of generosity can serve as a lifelong anchor for our sense of self-worth and belonging – and this year, looking into the children’s eyes, I saw once again how this annual event does just that,” Mayor Baraka said. “Beyond creating a truly joyful holiday memory, Shop With a Hero fosters trust and friendship with our public service professionals. These kids may not remember that they received gift cards, but they will remember having the undivided attention of a hero to help them pick out a special present for themselves. I am grateful to UCC, Amerigroup, Devils Youth Foundation, TEA Corp, Peapack-Gladstone Bank, and all their supporters, who make this day possible.”
After shopping, the children and their paired heroes returned to the Prudential Center to receive a donated gift, books and a bag of groceries. Marking another successful Shop With a Hero, this year’s campaign witnessed an outpouring of support from various stakeholders and key contributors, including the UCC Board of Directors, UCC partner Amerigroup, the Devils Youth Foundation, Prudential, Peapack-Gladstone Bank, TEA Corp, Nirvana Healthcare, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Clara Mass Medical Center, Newark Teacher’s Union, Newark Department of Public Safety, Essex County Cops 4 Kids, NJIT Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Rutgers University Police, and a host of various supporters. Their commitment to making a positive impact in the community enhanced the campaign’s reach and impact.
Photos submitted by UCC on behalf of Rebecca Nowalski
