Holiday spirit filled the aisles of Walmart last week when Fridley Police went on a shopping spree with 30 local students in need of a little extra cheer.
On December 7, Fridley Police volunteers escorted 30 local
students on a fun shopping spree. This was our 11th year doing Shop
with a Cop and is a year highlight for both the kids and the officers. Student
participants range from kindergarten to 4th grade and are selected
by school teachers and staff, determined by a combination of financial need and
those who could benefit from positive mentorship. This amazing event is
possible thanks to Walmart who donated $75 gifts cards to each student. Subway
also donated dinner for the kids.
This year, we had 15 sworn officers shopping with kids, plus
4 staff, 5 Police Explorers, 6 Reserve Officers, 4 civilian volunteers, 2
school staff members and 8 “elves” from Hayes and Stevenson Elementary Schools
who wrapped the presents. This year was especially meaningful for one Police
Explorer who had participated in Shop with a Cop as a student years ago and now
had the chance to pay it forward as a uniformed escort. Mayor Scott Lund filled
the Walmart aisles with holiday cheer and Santa’s familiar “ho ho ho”.