About our Programs
The Kops for Kids program was started by Officer Brian Landers of the Wisconsin Dells Police Department, and Officer Kristi Seidl of the Lake Delton Police Department in 1999. The purpose of the program was to build relationships between the community and local law enforcement by providing gifts for children in need during the holiday season.
Today, Kops for Kids still provides holiday gifts in addition to scholarships, sports clothing, and emergency assistance all year long. Since the inception of the program, we have assisted over 1,000 children in the Wisconsin Dells School District, which includes children ages 0-18 in the Wisconsin Dells, Lake Delton, Briggsville, and Lyndon Station communities. On average our program enlists about 100 volunteers putting in over 1,100 hours to maintain the success of these programs.
Holiday with a Hero
What started out as an event where law enforcement went shopping with a child's wish list has grown to a more one-on-one program called Holiday with a Hero. Children selected by teachers and social workers within the Wisconsin Dells School District are paired up with a police officer, paramedic, or firefighter for an entire day of fun. During this day, they get to go holiday shopping, complete crafts/activities, and have a pizza party. This continues our goal of building relationships with our local community.
Winter Clothing Program
Our Winter Clothing Program pairs with Happy Kids Network to identify children in need of clothing. In addition, staff at our local school district identify children who are in need of winter clothing as a general need or to be able to participate in recess during inclement weather. Our program will provide children in need at anytime with a winter coat, hat, gloves or winter boots.
Request Assistance Online >Extra-Curricular Clothing
This program provides children in need with the tools, clothing, and supplies to be able to participate in after school sports and activities. The Extra-Curricular Clothing program fulfills these requests based on recommendations of coaching staff.
Request Assistance Online >Emergency Assistance
The Emergency Assistance program provides assistance to children in the form of clothing, food, lodging, and other needs. We provide this assistance in times of emergency such as house fires or for victims of crimes.
Request Assistance Online >Scholarships
Scholarships are provided to a graduating senior of Wisconsin Dells High School pursuing a degree in public safety and are administered through the Wisconsin Dells Education Foundation.