Holiday Events With the West St. Paul Police Department

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In their ongoing effort to connect with the community and replace many of their events cancelled due to COVID-19, the West St. Paul Police Department has several holiday events coming up.

December 3: Santa’s Holiday Hero Express

Santa Claus is coming to town on Thursday, December 3. He’s swapped out the sleigh and reindeer for a vintage 1968 firetruck decked out for the holidays. With an escort from the West St. Paul Police Department and South Metro Fire, Santa will tour various neighborhoods in West St. Paul greeting children.

Routes and approximate times are available online, with the polar parade starting at 5:30 p.m. and running until 7:45. If you’re not along the route, families are encouraged to go to Harmon Park to see the parade. Get more information from the Facebook event.

December 9: Stuff the Squad

With everyone staying home during the pandemic, fewer toys are being collected for kids in need. So the West St. Paul Police Department is stepping up with a drop-off location at city hall. They’ll be collecting new and unwrapped toys on Wednesday, December 9 from 1 to 7 p.m. They’ll be working with A Place of Hope to distribute the toys in Dakota and Washington Counties.

The police will organize a drive thru drop off so everything stays safe and socially distanced. There’s a list of suggested toys on the Facebook event (and buying local would be a good double bonus).

TBD: Heroes and Helpers

Every year West St. Paul pairs kids in need with a first responder for a holiday shopping spree. It allows kids who otherwise might not be able to buy presents for their family a chance to get gifts. Previously known as ‘Shop With a Cop,’ it’s now known as Heroes and Helpers since it includes various first responders.

This year’s event will have to change thanks to COVID-19, but plans are still in the works to make sure it happens safely. While not a public event, Heroes and Helpers is a feel-good event cheered on by the whole community. If you’d like to make a donation to support the event, please contact Laura Vaughan at the West St. Paul Police Department.

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