Shop with a Cop Connects Kids with Law Enforcement
(OnFocus) The Clark County Shop with a Cop program returned Dec. 7 with the aim of forming meaningful connections between families and law enforcement.
Each of the 33 kids who participated in the program were given about $100 to pick out gifts for themselves and others with assistance from area police officers. The Clark County Law Enforcement Association (CCLEA) hosts the event every December as a way to positively interact with the community.
Children are referred through Clark County Community Services. If there are young siblings in a family, they are invited to join in so the program can help as many different families as possible each year.
Being able to provide kids in need with a few extra gifts and see the smiles on their faces is what the program is all about, besides showing them law enforcement can be approachable.
“That’s another reason we do this, because we want to show these kids we’re there to help,” said Officer Jake Schar, Loyal Police Department. “We’re not there to take people to jail and be scary. If they need anything, we want them to be able to come to us so we can try to help them.”
Since Shopko stores closed earlier this year, family-owned business Russell’s of Neillsville stepped in to provide toy options for the program. Following the shopping, families were treated to lunch at the Loyal Fire Department.
Life Link III provided a special ride for Santa, who handed out an extra gift of an outfit in each child’s size. Seeing the helicopter in action was a special part of the day for the kids.
“I think a lot of kids were excited to see it take off,” said Schar.
Those willing to make a contribution to CCLEA for future Shop with a Cop events can contact Sgt. Wade Hebert (Clark County Sheriffs Office), Officer Shar (Loyal Police Department) Officer King (Neillsville Police Department), or Lt. Hanna (WI DNR) at 715-743-3157.
Clark County’s Shop with a Cop Connects Kids with Law Enforcement
Author: News Desk
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