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”.