Picture this: Police cars, fire engines, and ambulances blaring their sirens in a caravan of vehicles. But there’s no crisis. The only emergency today is that 250 children each spend $100 on gifts for themselves and their families. The vehicles line the street, where children and their families are greeted by Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Deputy Mayor Jacqueline Quiles, UCC Executive Director Craig Mainor, additional UCC/City of Newark staff members, our heroes, volunteers and staff from partners and sponsors. As if getting to go on a shopping spree isn’t cool enough, these children will get the VIP treatment with Heroes beside them cheering along the way shopping on Broad Street & Market Streets in Newark.

This event supports the whole family so in addition to the shopping spree children will receive pre-purchased gifts, household essentials, and resources. UCC hopes to cover every avenue of first responders (Police Officers, Firefighters, Special Victims Unit, Emergency Medical Technicians, Paramedics, Doctors, Educators, and more).

This event creates an environment for a child and a hero to build a lasting bond and mentorship.