Dublin PD and all of Erath’s law agencies are asking the community to help them bring Christmas to kids in need during the second annual Shop with a Cop program
Dublin Police Chief Cameron Ray reported that the program has increased the amount being spent on every child from $150 to $200.
Every $200 raised sponsors a child to join an officer for breakfast before being escorted in a parade with lights and sirens to Wal-Mart, where they will pick out their gifts on Dec. 21. These children are chosen with assistance from Erath County schools and other organizations so the program is able to help those most in need.
Last year, the outpouring from the community resulted in the program increasing its goal of sponsoring 20-30 kids to more than 40 with seven of those coming from the Dublin community.
Ray reported every Dublin officer was able to pair with a Dublin child and escort them on the paid shopping trip. He added that the officers were humbled as the children were picking up items like kitty litter and gifts for their family as part of their purchases. This led several officers to contribute some of their own money
“At the end of the day, there were a lot of officers that had a different outlook on things and moved by the happiness by the kids,” Ray said.
Ray also reported that support has already been strong since the fundraising started last week with a sizable donation made by Wal-Mart.
Those wanting to donate can bring donations by Dublin PD or any of the other cooperating departments: Texas DPS, Erath County Sheriff’s Office, Stephenville PD, and Tarleton State University PD. Donations are also being accepted at First Financial Bank in Stephenville under the Shop with a Cop account.
Donations may also be mailed to Dublin PD at 213 E. Blackjack, Dublin, TX 76446.
The deadline to donate is Dec. 10.
“I’m proud to be a part of it,” Ray said. “All of our officers are excited about it and I know the other agencies are excited about it.”