It was the second annual “Shop With A Cop” at Walmart in Cobourg on December 16, 2018.
Twelve children ranging in age from 5-years-old to 13-years-old were paired up with uniformed officers, Special Constables and Auxiliary Constables to help them shop for Christmas gifts for their family members along with picking out something special for themselves.
The children and members of the police service were scattered all through the store picking out items of all types, not just toys.
Constable Danielle McKeen said businesses and community members have donated $150 to each child to donate gifts for each family.
“Last year was amazing we had eight kids, so we’ve grown a bit to 12 and more community partners and sponsors and wanted to donate.”
“Lots of happy kids.”
The children were picked from a local community social service agency along with local schools, “who deemed to be very deserving children.”
A 10-year-old girl who was with Constable McKeen said, “I think it’s really neat.”
Starting the day, the children were picked up in a police cruiser from their homes.
“They (police) are really cheerful and they wear little Santa hats and little elf hats. It was really cool they came in a police cruiser in uniform.”
The little girl could hardly contain her excitement as she spoke about riding in a police cruiser for the first time.
“Little kids who have never been in a cop cruiser or never gone out and done something like this, it’s just amazing,” said the girl.
After shopping everyone had a pizza lunch, then wrapped their gifts for their family and spent time with the officers.
“We’re trying to build positive relationships with youths in the community and this is a good way to break down the barriers between police and youth,” said McKeen.
Children have been sponsored by several generous community organizations including CrossFit Cobourg, Cobourg Nissan, JJ’s Steak & Burgers, Hoover’s Home Energy Inc., Baker’s Cleaners, Cobourg Buy & Sell, Cobourg Police Association, and Symon’s Auto Sales, as well as four generous individuals from the community.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
