Harris County Sheriff's Office Hosts Inclusive Back-to-School Shopping Event at Macy's in Willowbrook Mall
In a unique initiative tailored for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) youth, the Harris County Sheriff's Office Community Engagement Division (HCSO) recently partnered with Macy's to host a Back to School shopping event. The event, a part of the division's ongoing efforts to connect with and support the local community, took place at the Macy’s department store at Willowbrook Mall on Sunday, July 21, 2024.
Ten DHH students, selected from local schools and an organization called Empowered Hands, had the opportunity to shop for school supplies and clothing, thanks to a generous $200 gift card provided by Macy’s to each participant. This was the first time the division had included DHH youth in its Back-to-School events, following years of similar initiatives with other groups.
The HCSO team's relationship with the DHH community began about two years ago, when they hosted the first Citizens’ Police Academy for adults. Their engagement has since expanded to include the youth. The HCSO team ensures inclusivity through its collaborations with ASL interpreters, so that every participant can engage fully in events like these.
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In a statement on social media about the initiative, a representative for the HCSO Community Engagement Division said, "This event was not just about shopping; it was about building relationships, fostering understanding, and creating lasting memories." The division also acknowledged the dedicated ASL interpreters who volunteered their time, stating, "Their efforts ensured that every participant could fully engage in conversations, share laughter, and connect with law enforcement officers in meaningful ways. We are incredibly grateful for their expertise and commitment to inclusivity."
As for future events, HCSO Community Engagement encourages the public to follow their social media pages for announcements about upcoming initiatives.
"Events like these remind us that when we come together as a community—law enforcement, businesses, volunteers, and families—we can create enriching experiences that uplift our youth," the division concluded in their statement. "Thank you to everyone involved in making this day a success! Let’s continue working together to support all members of our community."
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
