Murphy The grey and rainy skies did not damper the hopes and expectations of excited children at Murphy Elementary School on Saturday morning for the 20th annual Shop With a Cop.
The program began in December 2004, after the Murphy Police Department received a special holiday grant from Walmart Supercenter. The program has grown every year since then.
The day began early with breakfast at the school after which the youngsters were paired up with their shopping partners and headed to Walmart on a bus. The busses were escorted from the school to the store by police vehicles with the extra show of flashing lights and sirens.
As the buses arrived, Walmart employees and Santa were outside to greet the excited children as they entered the store. Each child was allotted a specific amount of money to spend as they saw fit; some even bought items for others with their gift card dollars.
During their shopping experience, children build bonds with their partners; some have even requested the same person the following year. The program is an opportunity for kids to see law enforcement officers in a positive environment.
The toy aisles were filled with kids pointing at toys, laughing and jumping up and down with excitement as officers were reaching for items on higher shelves while tallying up the totals. Some children needed to be reined in a bit as their shopping carts were being filled with items totaling above the allotted amount.
Mayor Tim Radford was out with the group again this year. However, there were so many volunteers to shop with the children that he decided to let others enjoy the experience.
“Gratitude fills our hearts as we extend our sincere thanks to the dedicated organizers, law enforcement officers, volunteers, donors, supporters and our wonderful community for their unwavering commitment to making Shop With a Cop a cherished annual tradition,” he said.
“This heartwarming event not only brings smiles to the faces of the children who embark on a shopping adventure but also spreads immeasurable joy among the participating adults. Together, we make a difference, fostering a sense of unity and compassion that exemplifies the spirit of our community.”
Others in the store who were unfamiliar with the program may have been a bit surprised with the organized chaos unfolding around them. However, they were caught smiling as they looked around at the busy aisles filled with happy kids.
“We are just so happy to be a part of the community, to help the community and the children. It’s all about taking care of our community and families,” store manager Lora Hill said of the cops and kids filling her aisles. “It really puts things in perspective, things aren’t so bad when we see a different side of the story. We also support our law enforcement a 110 percent.”
Maia Cable, 9, attends Andrews Elementary School.
“I feel grateful and happy that we kids have the privilege of coming here to shop with the cops and spend money for Christmas,” she said. “I feel protected and safe when I’m around them, and I feel like I don’t have to worry when they’re around.”
Ann Lukens of Unaka was one of several coordinators.
“It’s a wonderful turnout on this rainy and soggy day. We want to thank our bus drivers for coming out on such a yucky day, they’re such an important part of our volunteer crew,” she said. “With twice as many volunteers as last year, we’re just delighted. We also want to thank all the people who donated money to Shop with a Cop – especially those who donate year after year.”
Murphy Police Chief Tim Lominac was appreciative of all those who’ve helped, offering a special thank you to assistant chief Ryan Cunningham, who played a big roll in Shop with a Cop; as well as volunteer coordinator Chelsey Manston, who he credited with making the event what it is today.