Winnebago County Sheriff Partners With Target, Meijer for 2025 Shop With a Cop, Fill the Bus Events

During this holiday giving season, Winnebago County Sheriff deputies and community partners are hosting a Shop with a Cop and Fill the Bus.

Holiday Initiative Strengthens Community Support in Northern Illinois

The Winnebago County Sheriff's Office is teaming up with Target and Meijer to brighten the holiday season for local families in need.

This Saturday (12/13), deputies, correctional officers, dispatchers, famalies, and friends will take part in the annual Shop with a Cop event at three stores across the region:

• Target, 9833 North Alpine Road in Machesney Park
• Meijer, 1770 West Lane Road in Machesney Park
• Meijer, 2013 McFarland Road in Rockford

Area Children Receive Holiday Gifts and an Unforgettable Experience

Children selected by the Harlem School District will shop alongside local law enforcement and public safety personnel, choosing gifts and essentials made possible through donations from Target, Meijer, and generous community members.

The Sheriff's Office says the program builds positive relationships between youth and officers while delivering much-needed holiday support to underprivileged families.

Residents Encouraged to Help ‘Fill the Bus’ with Donations

Residents are invited to donate new, unwrapped toys, food, clothing, and paper products during the Fill the Bus drive on December 13.

A Harlem High School bus will collect contributions at the Machesney Park Target from 8 - 10 am, and at the Machesney Park Meijer from 10 am to 12 pm.

All collected items will support students and famalies within the Harlem School District.