Local law enforcement officers from agencies throughout Hamilton County made Christmas a little brighter for almost 100 needy children Saturday morning at the annual Fraternal Order of Police Shop with a Cop event. It was held at Target on Gunbarrel Road.
The FOP partnered with local enforcement agencies and Child Protective Services to compile a list of needy children who would otherwise miss out on the joy of Christmas gifts. During the event, children were paired with a uniformed police officer who took them shopping for toys.
Organizers said, "All too often, the only interaction that some of these children have with police is when a family member is arrested for a crime. Understandably, that can result in negative memories associated with law enforcement. Our goal is to have a positive impact on these children at a younger age. Not only do we get to provide toys to those who would otherwise go without, but we get to interact with them on a personal level in a positive environment."
Shop with a Cop is not subsidized by tax dollars. This program is only made possible by donations to the fund. The FOP extends its deepest gratitude to the Miller Foundation, Target, Chick-Fil-A, and the individual donors who helped make this year's event a huge success. Donations are collected throughout the year. Anyone interested in making a donation to the Shop with a Cop fund can contact the local FOP at 423 504-7719 or hewitt_t@chattanooga.gov