Shop with a Cop is just around the corner and Dublin PD along with other Erath County law enforcement agencies are seeking donations.
For those unfamiliar with the program, all Erath County law enforcement agencies team up to take up to 60 kids across the county for a Christmas outing consisting of breakfast at the Purple Goat, a ride with lights and sirens from the eatery to Walmart and then a $250 shopping spree. Those kids are divided up from all of Erath County’s schools and law enforcement agencies.
Ten Dublin kids will be participating in this year’s event slated for Thursday, Dec. 19 and it’s the fifth year for Dublin PD to participate in the program.
“We are looking forward to another year of spreading joy and being connected with the youth of our community,” Dublin Police Chief Cameron Ray said.
Detective Nanci Wilson previously said the program helps to develop a strong relationship with the future of the community.
During the shopping spree, kids are allowed to purchase whatever they want and many use the funds to purchase items for their parents or siblings.
Some of those gifts have even included items such as a microwave to ensure their family would have an easier way to cook food.
Ray said the whole experience is extremely heartwarming and that they are able to give the kids an experience they may not have ever had before including riding in a police car with lights and sirens.
“We have been so blessed by the donations,” he said. “We have great supporters and they are excited to donate to the program each and every year.”
Those wanting to donate can make a donation at First Financial Bank – Shop with a Cop, Dublin Police Department, Stephenville Police Department, Tarleton State University Police Department, Erath County Sheriff’s Office or Venmo.
“We are so very blessed to protect and serve such a great community and county. The kindness, love and support of so many generous donors is just phenomenal and we are extremely grateful. We can’t thank them enough,” Stephenville Police Chief Dan Harris said.