Hearing a tremendous amount of police sirens could put anyone on edge, but for 52 Erath County kids it just meant a terrific time as part of the 5th annual Erath County Shop with a Cop.
The event held Thursday, Dec. 19, paired 52 kids with law enforcement agencies throughout the county and the state. Participants chosen by their schools enjoyed a breakfast at Purple Goat before loading into separate squad cars, running with lights and sirens to Walmart where they each spent $250 on whatever they wanted.
Depending on the agency, some kids even took over the loud speakers wishing on-lookers a Merry Christmas.
Since Erath County law enforcement does not have 52 squad cars, other agencies including State Troopers, and Game Wardens were utilized for the event. Erath County Sheriff’s Office, Stephenville PD, Tarleton PD and Dublin PD all participated in the event.
This year 10 Dublin kids participated.
“The ‘Shop with a Cop’ program is a powerful reminder of the positive impact we can have on our community. By building relationship with children and their families in a meaningful way, we’re not only providing a holiday gift, but also fostering trust and understanding that extends beyond the badge,” Dublin Police Chief Cameron Ray said. “The success of the program is a testament to the strength of community collaboration, and it truly reflects the heart of policing – serving and connecting with the people we serve.”
The Dublin community and Erath County is responsible for making the event a success with enough donations to cover the needed $15,000 and have enough to get a good head start on next year’s event. A major contributor this year was Stephenville Walmart itself who provided a $5,000 grant.
Store Manager Steve McCormick said the event is something his store and employees looks forward to each and every year, and are so grateful they can help.
Workers were all smiles during the event, including an enthusiastic gingerbread person and Mrs. Claus who were available to add laughter and candy canes as the kids shopped. A blue-suited Santa with Stephenville PD welcomed kids and officers into the store.
Employees also made sure the store looked extra nice as they prepared for the annual event. Kids flooded into a variety of departments with toys, electronics and clothing teeming with law enforcement officers helping kids with their shopping lists.
Erath County Sheriff Captain Tye Box said he enjoyed being part of the experience and loved seeing the kids connecting to law enforcement and thanked the communities for their participation.
“Without them it isn’t possible,” Box said.
“Today we were able to make a positive difference in the lives of so many of our Erath County youth,” Stephenville Police Chief Dan Harris said. “Our 5th annual Shop with a Cop was a huge success thanks to the love, support and generosity of our loving communities and county. This event brings tears of joy to us and warms the hearts of all of us and that is why we love to protect and serve everyone here in Stephenville, Dublin, and all of Erath County.”
Sheriff Matt Coates also took part in the experience by overseeing registers as checkouts occurred, while guarding bicycles for kids who selected them as part of their gifts.