For these Mpls. kids, police presence meant Christmas presents

Christmas shopping can be a chore. But for a few members of the Minneapolis Police Department and staff from Lucy Craft Laney Community School on the city's north side, a trip through the Target store in downtown Minneapolis on Tuesday was a festive occasion.

They were spending money donated by former Minnesota Viking Greg Jennings and his wife, Nicole, to buy Christmas gifts for 27 students. Staff at Lucy Craft Laney said the kids on the shopping list were from families who are having a tough time making ends meet this year. This is the second year Greg and Nicole Jennings have donated money for holiday gifts.

Sgt. Rich Lillard said he can sympathize with the children he's shopping for. He was raised by his mom, who often struggled to pay the bills. Sometimes he didn't get much for Christmas.

"I remember those days, so it's kind of cool to get some of these kids some stuff," Lillard said. "So they can be happy."

Fourth Precinct Inspector Michael Friestleben said he's glad the department was asked to participate in the gift giveaway this year. It's important that he and his officers connect with kids and their families.

"Anytime we can do great things for the community, instead of just answer calls and do police activities, it's always going to make that bond stronger with our community," Friestleben said. "And right now it needs it more than it ever has on the north side."

Last month, the north side — specifically the 4th Precinct station — became the site of weeks-long protests over the fatal police shooting of Jamar Clark.

Teachers and staff reached out to parents at the school and asked them what their kids might like or need for Christmas. And not all the items on the lists are Monster dolls or Transformers action figures. The lists include clothes, socks and other essentials.

Principal Mauri Melander said teachers and staff at Lucy Craft Laney have close relationships with students and their families. They make home visits at the beginning of each school year and are often invited to family BBQs and picnics.

"And then we always let our families know, 'If you're going through stuff, let us know.' Not because we can always do something about it. But because sometimes it's important to know where our students are coming from," Melander said.

After filling dozens of large gift bags with toys and goods for the kids, Melander, accompanied by police officers, school staff and a half-dozen members of the media, showed up at the north Minneapolis doorstep of three students.

Sherrod McMorris was a little surprised and overwhelmed. His son Sherrod and daughters Shakirra and Shamirra all go to Lucy Craft Laney.

Six-year-old Shakirra escorted her principal and other guests upstairs to her family's apartment.

"Very exciting," her dad said with a laugh. "I broke out in a sweat. I wasn't expecting all of this."

McMorris hasn't had a chance to get a tree yet. But at least there will be some presents for his children.