Shop With a Cop Puts Smiles on Faces, Alachua Police Department Hosts Kids’ Shopping Spree

ALACHUA ‒ It was smiles galore at the Alachua Police Department’s (APD) annual Shop with a Cop event as local children experienced some special holiday cheer courtesy of local law enforcement.

The event has become a holiday tradition for APD, City of Alachua staff, and volunteers. APD reported that this year 50 children from local schools were treated with a shopping spree at Walmart. Each child was given a $100 gift card to spend on any items they wished, which for many included gifts for family members.

Excitement began to build early with a police escort to and from a local Walmart where the shopping spree took place. And as children, armed with their $100 in purchasing power, browsed the store aisles, their joy was evident in their smiling faces. Today was their day to do more than just window shop, but instead to peruse their options and buy that special item.

About the event, APD noted, “The success of Shop with a Cop relies heavily on the kindness and dedication of sponsors and volunteers like you. Your contribution has not only brought joy to the children involved but has also strengthened the bond between our officers and the community we serve.”

Shop with a Cop will undoubtedly be a day to remember in the lives of the children who had the opportunity to not only make their Christmas a happy one, but also a joyous occasion for their families as well.

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