Kids, first responders team up for Holiday with a Hero

Seven-year-old Colton McKim Carrier couldn’t contain his enthusiasm Saturday after shopping with his new friend.

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He gave Chatham-Kent Police Insp. Greg Cranston a big hug before they went to explore other Holiday with a Hero activities at the John D. Bradley Convention Center.

“It’s amazing. Hearing the stories and seeing the excitement on Colton’s face,” Cranston said, after both helped police board secretary Carol Holling wrap the gifts they purchased.

Eighty kids, nominated to take part, were matched with first responders from multiple organizations, including Elgin OPP’s Chatham detachment, Chatham-Kent police, fire and EMS, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Rondeau Provincial Park and the Ministry of Natural Resources.

The annual event aims to foster positive relationships and make memories with emergency service personnel.

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“It’s truly amazing. It just fills your cup up,” Holling said of her time volunteering.

While shopping at Walmart, kids were given a loaded gift card and tasked with finding a gift for themselves and their families.

Following this, a procession of emergency vehicles headed to the Bradley Center for breakfast with Santa, gift wrapping, bouncy castles and face painting.

OPP Staff Sgt. Brian Knowler, an organizer, said he’s always pleased with the response and volunteers’ generosity with their time.

“It’s a great balance of kids, heroes and volunteers,” he said. “The shopping portion was excellent. As always, Walmart is so accommodating to us.”

For the first responders themselves, Knowler called it a great opportunity to interact with the public beyond an emergency scene.

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“Unfortunately, you’re dealing with people on their worst day,” he said. “It’s inevitable that rubs off on us. So, to have the opposite happen, and to be here when the day is joy and smiles, it’s just a really nice counterbalance.”

Firefighter Mike Taylor, who was paired with Jada Hanson, 9, also enjoyed the experience.

“It’s special, just to see them happy, excited,” he said.

Paramedic Danielle Mifflin, who serves on the EMS organizing committee for the event, finds it rewarding every year.

“It’s one of the most fun events we do,” she said. “(While shopping), it’s lovely to see them think about others than themselves.”

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