It was the annual Shop With A Cop program on Sunday, December 18, 2022 at Walmart in Cobourg
Several officers with the Cobourg Police Service escorted nine youths (from grade four to grade eight) to shop for Christmas presents for themselves and members of their family.
“The children are chosen from the community by the police service and their community partners,” said Constable Cindy Reeves.
“We really encourage kids to shop and get a gift for themselves, but we encourage them to get gifts for their family, their pets and maybe even a friend. They start out by planning to buy all kinds of gifts for themselves and then they end up buying all kinds of gifts for their family.”
The children get to spend approximately $200.
Sponsors from the community is how the event happens each year.
Sponsors this year were:
Diamond Homes by Davis
Hoovers Home Energy
Baltimore Esso
Brent Maguire Home Renovations
Baker Cleaners
Jim Puddy
Crossfit Cobourg
Cobourg Police Association and Senior Administration Association along with personal donations from members of the Cobourg Police Service.
“I’m in my 28th year of policing and it’s the best way for me to show the kids how much I care. It’s a get to way the know the kids,”
“It humanizes police officers and it’s an opportunity to forge relationships and have a great time.”
Reeves said that every year more officers donate their time for the program.
After the shopping everyone went back to the Cobourg Police Station and wrapped their presents and had lunch before going home.