Barrington police, firefighters help make holidays brighter for 16 families

Barrington police and firefighters volunteered their free weekend morning to help more than 30 children shop for holiday gifts during the village's annual "Shop With a Cop" event Sunday.

The event began with a breakfast at the Barrington public safety building, then moved to the Target store in Lake Zurich, where participants took a group photo before getting to work finding gifts.

Uniformed police officers and members of the Police Explorers accompanied each of the 16 families as they shopped for clothing, school supplies and a few toys.

Police Sgt. Keith Wrzala also gave free advice to a curious Shane Soto, 12, who asked how he could get the attention of girls.

"Patience and understanding," Wrzala told him as they stood in the makeup aisle with Shane's 15-year-old sister, Shales. "Like shopping with your sister."

"With him it's all Xbox," said Shane's mother, Shanel. "(Shales) is very practical. She wants a new bed frame and pillows."

Each of the 31 children also received a wrapped toy to open on Christmas Day.

"As a police department, we are very fortunate to have tremendous supporters that make Shop With A Cop possible," Police Chief Dave Dorn said. "The Barrington United Way and The Barrington Area Community Foundation have given generously to allow for the police and fire department to make a positive impact on several families in our community."