Shop With a Cop event continues to strengthen community outreach program with area youth

Local law enforcement put on their uniforms every day to protect and serve, but one day out of the year; they perform a different service for the community by participating in the Shop With the Cop program.

The program allows officers to shop with a child to ensure everyone has a present under the tree this season.

The purpose of the program is to have children interact with law enforcement and other emergency responders to assist with them overcoming a potential fear or uncertainty about law enforcement officers in uniform.

Shop With a Cop also allows the children with an opportunity to use donated money to purchase gifts for loved ones, when chance of receiving holiday gifts may be low.

On the morning of Dec. 10, 13 children met at the Ritzville Area Chamber of Commerce office for the shopping trip of a lifetime. Local emergency responders, including police officers, EMTs and 9-1-1 dispatchers, met them to begin their morning of shopping local.

Along with anonymous donations made throughout the year, local businesses also provide discounts for the young shoppers during their trip around town. This year, businesses like Cow Creek Mercantile, Ritzville Ace Hardware and Bob’s TV and Appliance offered a discount on each total purchase to help the kids stay in budget while shopping for their loved ones.

At the Ritzville Drug Company, not only did the children receive a discount on purchases, they also received a gift bag. The bag was filled with holiday treats and activities, and each child also had the opportunity to pick out a Christmas ornament for their family’s tree.

During the shopping trip, each officer received an envelope with the child’s budgeted money, as well as a list of family members and the ages of their siblings. The children personally selected a gift for each family member, and were also allowed to select one gift for themselves.

After the shopping trip, the officers, children and volunteers met at Ritzville City Hall to wrap presents. Among the volunteers at City Hall were Mayor Gary Cook and his wife Chris, as well as other emergency responders and their family members.

While the kids worked diligently alongside their shopping partner, they were also welcome to enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Memories Diner donated the hot chocolate for the event, while all of the present wrapping material was provided by multiple donors.

After the presents are wrapped, family members picked up the children and thanked law enforcement members for their positive interaction with the community and the kids.

Ritzville Police Chief Dave McCormick helped coordinate the event, and all the officers expressed their gratitude for the extensive list of donors who make the event possible.

The event provides an opportunity to become a part of the season of giving, and create a positive relationship between local youth and law enforcement officers.