Forty-eight kids shop with Round Lake Park cops

Taking needy kids shopping for Christmas has become a common practice for local police departments. But in Lake County, Round Lake Park was the pioneer when it began the practice 21 years ago.

"We are the granddaddy," said Chief George Filenko, who has continued the tradition that began under his predecessor, Bruce Johnson. "It was the first program in the county, and when he started it, we did it at the police station."

On Monday, the tradition continued as officers escorted 48 needy kids aged 12 and under - each allotted $100 to spend - to the Walmart in Round Lake Beach. Recipients' names are submitted by local schools, social service agencies and churches.

The money is collected through the year from events such as National Night Out and the village festival, as well as donations from individuals or organizations. This year, a local club knitted hats, gloves and scarves for every child.

Filenko said all the recipients are in need and because some might spend all their money on essentials, a rule has been put in place.

"The officers are told no matter what, they (kids) need to buy at least one toy for themselves," he said.

In the early days, the number of participants swelled into the hundreds. The event moved to a roller rink and then to Murphy School. With the school still needing repairs from last summer's floods, the village hall was used as the meeting place Monday.

"It's decorated nicely and it's cozy," Filenko said.

The kids and their families met there in two shifts for some snacks before heading to Walmart.