CHICAGO — Families of Chicago police officers injured or killed in the line of duty got a special visit this weekend from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation's annual Operation Santa kicked off Saturday at Macy's on State Street with the Clauses and a team of elves loading gifts for the families of officers. The nonprofit organization, which provides support to families of Chicago police officers, partnered with Macy's for the third consecutive year.
"The holidays are a hard time for these families," said Dave Bayless, a Chicago Police Memorial Foundation spokesman. "They are remembering loved ones that they've lost in the line of duty. We want to show the families that they aren't forgotten."
Mauricio Peña describes the kids' joyous reaction to Santa:
Now in its eighth year, Operation Santa sprouted as a way to give thanks for the sacrifice the officers and their families make for the city of Chicago, Bayless added.
Kim Goth, store manager of Macy's on State Street, said the store was excited to partner with organization for the event.
"We are grateful for their service and sacrifice and are thrilled their generosity is being recognized in this season of giving," she said.
Juan Jacinto Jr., his wife and three kids were among one of the 15 families visited over the weekend.
"It feels good to have them come around," Jacinto said. "It's nice to know that we aren't forgotten."
In January 1998, Jacinto and his partner were responding to a call when a drunk driver hit their squad car. Jacinto's right eye had to be removed after being impaled by a microphone stand on the squad car's dashboard.
For Jacinto, hearing the news of the two police officers killed on duty in New York Saturday reminded him of the dangers that come with wearing a badge.
"I'm very fortunate to be able to spend the holidays with my kids," Jacinto said. "I know not everyone is as lucky. It's a dangerous job and my heart goes out to the families of the officers in New York and others lost while on duty."
Echoing Jacinto's sentiment's, Phil Cline, executive director of the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation and a former police superintendent, said the New York officers' deaths underscores the mission of the organization and Operation Santa of giving back to families of "our fallen heroes."
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