Shop With A Cop
22 Dec 2011 Leave a Comment
in non-profit organization, Personal Enrichment, Uncategorized
OK, so I know you are asking yourself “What is Shop With A Cop”?
In the state where my friend lives, this program is administered within each county depending upon police department participation: State; county; municipal; etc.
Children are recommended for participation in the program by police department members, school employees, social agencies and family shelters. Anyone can nominate a child who meets the criteria of being between the ages of six and eleven (6-11) and who has a social or economic need. The child must also not have participated in the past.
The decision is based on their family situation: Single parents; out-of-work parents; any kind of family hardship, etc. that would prevent the child from receiving gifts for Christmas.
The parent(s) are interviewed both via phone and in-person.
A committee then whittles the list down to the monies available. (100% of all monies are used for the kids. There are NO “administrative” or other “fees” taken out.) Programs allot the child anywhere from $50 and up.
The parent(s) make a list of what their child needs. Basic needs are met first (i.e. coat, boots, hat, gloves, scarf, etc), then “wants” are fulfilled as budget allows.
On the designated shopping day, the Officer picks up their assigned child in their police cruiser. They drive to a meeting place, and the group shares a meal together. After the meal, they get into their vehicles, put all the lights and sirens on, and caravan to the designated shopping venue.
The Officer is in charge of the list and the budget.
They shop together! I say, any reason to shop is golden in my eyes….
They proceed to the check out line. (USUALLY the store has a designated lane for checking out all the Shop With A Cop participants.) Some stores actually offer gift wrapping if the child wants to give a gift to a sibling, friend, parent, etc.
Then the Officer takes the child home along with all of their gifts!
My friend, the Officer pictured above, has been donating his time to this program for over 20 years now. He has sparked me to get it going here in my very own state.
I already have an appointment set with a lawyer to get the non-profit organization set up. I allow no moss to grow under my feet! 
So, keep your eyes peeled and I will be updating you along the way!
Please remember to keep the true meaning of the holidays in your heart: Love, Compassion, Caring, and Selflessness.
Stay Tuned….
