Deputy Sheriff Bryan Hammons help one of the many children during the annual Shop with a Cop.
The organization goes through school counselors and resource centers to find eligible candidates for Christmas.
“Each school is allotted a certain number of children to nominate,” explained FOP president Brandy Higdon. “The age group who qualifies is anyone 13 and under.”
The FOP does not accept any child who has participated in the last three years. This gives other children in need the opportunity to get needed items for Christmas.
Each child shopped with an adult.
“The kids get, socks, underwear and a coat for sure,” replied Higdon. “If shoes or a coat were needed we try get those along with two outfits. Then $25-30 is spent on a toy. We try to spend the majority on clothing.”
Parents take the children who are chosen to the middle school to eat pizza the night of the event.
The kids then ride a bus to Wal-Mart to shop with law enforcement. A total of 65 kids were shopped for during the event held on December 15, and 39 of kids participated in the event. Presents were bought for the rest of the children before the event.
“Shop With a Cop's main purpose is to supply less fortunate children in the county with a means for a good Christmas”, said Kim Miller FOP vice-president.
The members of the FOP would like to extend a special thanks for donations from Knights of Columbus, American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, Sons of American Legion, American Legion Post 81, Wal-Mart, Cash Express, Papa Johns, and private local citizens.
For more information about the program call Kim Miller or Brandy Higdon at (270) 259-0303.
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