Dublin PD and other Erath law agencies have been collecting a lot of donations as the third annual Shop with a Cop event looms.
The program, slated for Dec. 22 this year, takes up donations so that local law enforcement officials can take Erath county kids in need for a special breakfast before escorting them for a Christmas shopping trip to Walmart, where they’ll be able to pick out clothes, shoes and a special toy.
Every $250 in donated funds helps sponsor a kid for the special trip. Officers will walk in to Walmart on Dec. 22 with the child they’re treating and a $250 gift card as they take them to pick out their items.
Last year, the program was able to help 40 Erath County kids. The aim is for 50 kids this year (with 10 from Dublin). Any remaining funds will be saved for next year. “The community has turned out generous for this,” said Dublin Police Chief Cameron Ray. “We have had several donations in the past few weeks and most of them are sizable donations.” Ray said the program strengthens the bond between law enforcement and the community.
“When we first started this, I never imagined the impact it would have on individual officers,” said Ray. “The first year, we left with a sense of gratitude to the community in being able to give somebody something they would never have otherwise. Last year, it was the same feeling.” Those wishing to help can sponsor a child for $250 or donate at one of the following locations:
■ First Financial Bank (Shop with Cop account)
■ Dublin Police Department
■ Texas Dept. of Public Safety
■ Stephenville Police Department
■ Tarleton State University Police Department
■ Erath County Sheriff’s Office