Published December 31. 2025 12:03PM
It was a happy day for select children from each of the Parkland schools who had the opportunity to shop for the Christmas holiday with local police officers at the Heroes for the Holidays shopping spree Dec. 9 at Target, 1600 N. Cedar Crest Blvd., South Whitehall.
Three students from each of the 12 district schools including the nine elementary schools, Orefield and Springhouse middle schools and Parkland High School were chosen to be accompanied by a police officer for the shopping spree. According to the South Whitehall Township Police Department, “Each year, these young heroes are recognized for their selflessness, as they shop for gifts – not for themselves – but for their loved ones.”
Police officers from South Whitehall and Upper Macungie townships, Pennsylvania State Police and Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health Safety and Security participated in the event.
The townships, LVHN and Target all contributed funds to the program.
South Whitehall Township Police Department Detective Stacy Januscz and student Giary, enter the Target Store to participate in the Heroes for the Holidays shopping spree at Target, 1600 N. Cedar Crest Blvd., South Whitehall, recently.Story and additional photos appear on Page A11.PRESS PHOTO BYLOU WHEELAND
PRESS PHOTOS BY LOU WHEELANDAria is escorted by Pennsylvania State Trooper Harrison Kaye, Troop M Fogelsville Barracks, during the Heroes for the Holidays shopping spree at Target.
Parkland School District School Resource Officer Thomas Bammer and student Warren are looking for the perfect gifts.
Zander is shopping with South Whitehall Township Officer Bethany Adams and Jackie Erley, Belfor Property Restoration at the “Heroes for the Holidays” shopping spree at Target.
South Whitehall Police Sgt. Jaryd Winkelbauer and Zhlahnese are together at the Heroes for the Holidays shopping spree at Target.
Parkland student Maysun is shopping the Barbie aisle at Target with Upper Macungie Township Police Officer Ryan Mertus.
South Whitehall Township Police Chief Frank Lombardo and Upper Macungie Police Chief Michael Sistoski (holding the bear) attend the Heroes for the Holidays shopping spree.
Parkland student Tashae is shopping with School Resource Officer Amanda Sariego during the shopping spree.
James with “Cisco,” one of two Lehigh Valley Health Network weapons detecting canines, handler Casey O’Donnell and Pennsylvania State Police Cpls. Jared Christman and Chris Yaworski, Troop M Bethlehem, attend the shopping event.
Upper Macungie Police Department Patrol Officer Rob Djevharian and Rodney shop for the perfect gifts at Target.
Carlota and South Whitehall Township Police Officer Samantha Janner go shopping.
