SOUTH BRUNSWICK – Ten recipients were selected by their individual school for their outstanding work and character, and thus had an opportunity to shop with cops for Christmas presents.
The fifth annual Heroes and Helpers event was held on Dec. 12 at Target on Route 1 in South Brunswick.
Richard Jabaery Ellis from South Brunswick High School, Nicholas Schucman from Crossroads Middle School South, Grace Manzino from Crossroads Middle School North, Jeylon Billups from Brunswick Acres Elementary, Jayden Hanis from Greenbrook Elementary, Gianna Hackett from Cambridge Elementary, Tehmel Pittman from Constable Elementary, McKenna Caffrey from Monmouth Junction Elementary, Robert Cobbs from Indian Fields Elementary and Aaliyah Parks from Brooks Crossing Elementary have been involved in opportunities such as supporting the Brain Injury Alliance, autism awareness, hospitalized children, peer leadership, helping kindergartners read, being involved with disabled students and those who are LGBTQ+ and assisting new students as they transfer to the South Brunswick district.
“It’s a pleasure to recognize these 10 students for their outstanding efforts. There are over 9,000 students in the district and these young men and women were chosen because they have made a positive impact in their school or community,” Police Chief Raymond Hayducka said.
Each honoree was given a Target gift card, and their own personal police officer to accompany them through the store on their shopping spree.
The program was funded by a partnership between Target, the South Brunswick School District Administrators, and the South Brunswick Police Department PBA and FOP.