Hilo Heroes and Helpers Event Brings Christmas Joy to East Hawai‘i Keiki

Santa made an early stop in Hilo for the 9th annual Heroes and Helpers event on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at the Hilo Target store. Modeled after the popular “Shop with a Cop” program, its mission is to foster positive relationships between law enforcement, disadvantaged keiki, and the community. This year’s event was a resounding success, with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies teaming up with Catholic Charities to provide a memorable shopping experience for 50 disadvantaged children.

This special event allowed first responders from the Hawai‘i Police Department, Hawai‘i Fire Department, Hawai‘i Department of Law Enforcement Sheriffs, Department of Land and Natural Resources officers, rangers with the National Park Service, and Hawaii National Guard members  to connect and build trust with the children while helping them shop for Christmas gifts. Each child received a $125 gift card to purchase items of their choosing, which could include gifts for themselves, parents, siblings, or others. Once their selections were made, volunteers provided expert gift-wrapping services by to prepare the presents for Christmas.

“It’s humbling to see the appreciation from both the keiki and heroes who make this event what it is,” said Lieutenant William Derr, who oversees Hawai‘i Police Department’s Hilo Community Policing Section. Volunteers and police recruits, known as “helpers,” assisted with tracking purchases and supporting the officers throughout the event, with one recruit saying, “I’m hooked, I’ll be volunteering every year!”

After shopping and wrapping, the children were treated to snacks and hot chocolate to conclude the day.

“A lot of volunteers made this event a success and we extend a hearty mahalo to Starbucks, KWXX’s Gavin Tanouye, Punalu‘u Bakery, KTA, the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney and all the volunteers who made the day so memorable,” said Derr.