Decatur Police, YMCA benefit local students through community events

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — The Decatur Family YMCA and the Decatur Police Department are celebrating their long-standing partnership and the success of two community events.

Officials said 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed for this year’s Backpack Attack event. These backpacks were given to kindergarten through sixth grade students across Macon County.

Meanwhile, the Shop With a Cop program gave 75 area children the opportunity to shop at Kohl’s with local law enforcement. Kids are referred by local schools and organizations to shop for clothes, shoes, and other necessities. The goal of the program is not only to get important items to families who need them, but to foster connections between police officers and the next generation.

“Every child deserves a positive start to the school year,” said Danielle Diskey, Director of
Development & Marketing for Decatur Family YMCA. “Our partnership with the Decatur Police
Department through Backpack Attack and Shop With a Cop allows us to extend our reach and
impact more students across the community. We are committed to supporting our local youth
and providing them with the tools they need to succeed.”

Detective Jason Danner, President of Decatur PB&PA Unit 39, enjoys directly affecting families in a positive way.

“The Shop With a Cop program is about making sure these children are afforded the opportunity to start the school year off on the right foot. We are grateful for the YMCA’s continued support and the opportunity to work together in making a difference in these kid’s lives.”

To learn more about the Backpack Attack or Shop With a Cop, reach out to ymca@decaturymca.org or pbpaunit39@gmail.com over email.

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