Annual Shop With a Cop a huge success
Published 3:26 pm Thursday, December 5, 2024
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By Ivan Sanders
Star Correspondent
Law enforcement cars from multiple agencies pulled into Walmart on Wednesday night with flashing lights, causing concern among shoppers entering and exiting the store.
However, there was nothing to fear, as the cars were staged to welcome children arriving for the annual Shop With a Cop event.
A total of 61 children registered for the event, which began at Elizabethton High School at 5:30 p.m. with pizza, Chick-fil-A sandwiches, cake, chips, and drinks. The evening culminated with children being paired with law enforcement officers who helped them select Christmas gifts using a $275 Walmart shopping card provided to each child.
In addition to the shopping cards, each family received a $50 gift card to purchase food items.
The event was made possible through generous donations from individuals, churches, businesses, clubs, and the efforts of the local motorcycle club Appalachian Warriors, which collected donations on behalf of the program.
Children selected a variety of items, including bicycles, dolls, Legos, electronics, and clothing necessities. Many also picked out gifts for their families, showcasing the true heart of giving.
Officers enjoyed helping the children shop, as evidenced by the smiles on their faces during the special Christmas event.
Walmart partnered with the Elizabethton Police Department and Carter County Sheriff’s Department to make the night memorable for the children. Elizabethton City Schools provided two school buses to transport the children to the store, where parents awaited to take them home after their shopping adventure.
The Chick-fil-A cow made an appearance, handing out small plush toys to the children.
Santa Claus traveled from the North Pole to join the festivities, accompanied by the Grinch — who displayed his newfound holiday spirit — and a group of cheerful elves who ensured the evening went smoothly.
All photos are by Ivan Sanders.
