Annual tradition pairs children with local heroes for holiday shopping experience
On December 18, the Royal Oak Civic Foundation partnered with Meijer for the annual Shop with a Hero event, providing gift cards to Royal Oak children in need to buy presents for loved ones. This cherished tradition transforms holiday shopping into an experience of joy, connection, and community care.
Each participating child received a gift card and was paired with a local hero from police and fire departments and veterans organizations who guide them through their shopping experience to select gifts for family and friends. A dedicated team of volunteers were on hand to wrap each gift with care, creating memories that will last far beyond the holidays.
“This tradition shows what makes Royal Oak special – our commitment to caring for one another,” said foundation chair, Tom McGannon. “Watching children light up as they shop alongside the heroes who protect and serve our community, and seeing those relationships strengthen year after year, reminds us that when we invest in our neighbors, we build a stronger, more connected city for everyone.”
The Shop with a Hero event is made possible through the partnership between the Royal Oak Civic Foundation, Meijer, the Royal Oak Police and Fire Departments, American Legion members, Royal Oak Schools, and numerous community volunteers.
Tax-deductible donations to the Royal Oak Civic Foundation Community Benefit Fund from community donors ensures more children can experience this joy and supports other vital community programs throughout the year.
Since its creation, the Royal Oak Civic Foundation has directed more than half a million dollars to fund vital community programs and initiatives. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the foundation supports civic entities that receive little or no tax-based funding and groundbreaking community projects that improve quality of life in the city.
