Seeing a blue Santa wave from a large Texas DPS SWAT vehicle moving down Hwy. 377 isn’t a normal occurrence at Christmas, but this year it simply meant the start of the 6th annual Erath County Shop with a Cop event.
The event held Monday, Dec. 22, paired 50 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 $350 on whatever they wanted.
Depending on the agency, some kids even took over the loud speakers wishing onlookers a Merry Christmas.
Since Erath County law enforcement does not have 50 squad cars, other agencies including State Troopers, Texas Rangers and Game Wardens were utilized for the event. Erath County Sheriff’s Office, Stephenville PD, Erath County Constables, Tarleton PD and Dublin PD all participated in the event.
This year 10 Dublin kids participated.
“Shop with a Cop was great! It brings joy to everyone’s hearts seeing the kids enjoy something that they might not otherwise get,” 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 amount needed 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 look forward to each and every year and are so grateful they can help.
Workers were all smiles during the event, including an enthusiastic Batman.
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.
“We are so very blessed to provide for these children and provide them with a great experience shopping with the law enforcement officers from Erath County,” Stephenville Police Chief Dan Harris said. “Every year we make great memories with these children. Here is a prime example. If you haven’t seen KJ’s video on the Stephenville Police Department Facebook page, where he delivers a beautiful rendition of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer over the Walmart store intercom, please take a minute to watch him. Making a positive difference in the lives of these children is what we love to do with our Annual Shop with a Cop Event.”
Sheriff Matt Coates also took part in the experience by overseeing registers as checkouts occurred, and guarding the occasional bicycle.
“My favorite part of every year is watching some of the kiddos buy other family members’ gifts or buying necessities like food or bedding etc.,” Coates said.