Kids can Shop with a Cop

This year I was contacted by the person that has been making a substantial donation for several years to the Zion Philadelphia Church for the Shop with a Cop Program. It was requested I become more involved with this program as the police department may be able to better identify the children that are in need and insure the overall goal of this program is met.

Based on the amount of the donations received, staff from the police department and Ritzville School District will identify a minimum of 10 children from families that may not otherwise have a Christmas.

Officers from the Ritzville Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Department and the local detachment of the Washington State Patrol will pick up these children and take them Christmas shopping in Ritzville on a Saturday in December.

The children will be allowed to purchase gifts for their siblings and parents. After the gifts are purchased the children and gifts will be taken to the Zion Philadelphia Church, where the children will be assisted by volunteers with wrapping the gifts. Treats and hot chocolate will also be provided.

If you would like to become involved with this important program, donations of Christmas wrapping paper, scotch tape, bows and ribbon may be taken to the Zion Philadelphia Church at 301 E. Broadway in Ritzville not later than the Dec. 9.

If you would like to make a cash contribution to help expand this program, please contact Pastor Judith Rinehart-Nelson or Joyce Preston. For questions please call Chief McCormick.