For the first time, the Brookfield Police Department is engaging in what officers hope will be a holiday tradition — shopping with children who have been affected by the tough economy.

During the “Shop with a Cop” event Dec. 12, Brookfield police officers will give 15 children $100 each to shop for Christmas gifts for themselves and their families at a local Wal-Mart store.

The program is nationwide, with other police departments in California, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Utah and Indiana taking part.

The officers are in the process of talking to local schools and social service agencies to find children that would be good for the program.

Police Chief Steven Stelter is piloting the program in Brookfield. He participated in the same program for 15 years when he worked at the DuPage County sheriff’s office.

“I wanted to bring it to Brookfield because it is a wonderful program,” Stelter said. “It gives the opportunity for police officers to reach out to the community and help families who have suffered due to economic hardship. We can take the kids shopping and let them bond with the police. A lot of people are suffering from the economic times.”

The cost of sponsoring one child is $100. Stelter plans to donate the first $100 himself.

Lt. Ed Petrak said the officers participate in other charitable programs, but that this one is something different.

“We’ve participated in Toys for Tots and in food drives for St. Barbara’s Food Pantry,” Petrak said.

“This is something new. It’s good for the kids and our guys.”

Petrak said he is one of the officers in charge of going to the local schools to find children that fit the program.

“We’re going to meet up with school counselors, social workers and principals,” Petrak said.

“We’re looking for children in families that are having a difficult time with the economy this year. There’s a lot of struggling with the way jobs are, and people could probably use a little bit of help.”

Children have to be between the ages of 8 and 13. Anyone can nominate a child. For more information, call (708) 485-8131.

To donate

WHO Local businesses and individuals

WHAT Donate money to sponsor a child in Brookfield’s Shop with a Cop program

WHEN Shopping will take place Dec. 12, donations must be received by Dec. 1

WHERE Checks should be written to the Village of Brookfield Shop with a Cop and can be dropped off at the Village Hall or the Police Department, 8820 Brookfield Ave.

FOR MORE INFO Call (708) 485-8131