Buck Bald Brewing in Murphy helped raise money for the annual Shop with a Cop program on Sept. 30.
Murphy – Donations came in at Buck Bald Brewing on Sept. 30 to help fund the annual Shop with a Cop program. Folks appeared happy to be filling the donation container so kids can enjoy a brighter Christmas.
Each year, children ages kindergarten through fifth grade are treateåçd to breakfast, lunch, games and a shopping spree at Walmart while being paired up with local law enforcement officers. They are escorted to the shopping center by police vehicles, complete with lights and sirens.
“We’ve had a lot of good conversations with people who didn’t even know about the program. I enjoy being able to explain to people that this gives us a chance to engage with the community. It offers a chance for the children we get to serve to see us in a different light than they normally would,” Murphy assistant police chief Ryan Cunningham said.
The program is successful because of the generosity of people through their donations and volunteering.
“We weren’t completely familiar with what was going on tonight. We actually talked to the people putting on the event, and we think it’s a great idea and fabulous for the community, so we’ll be donating very shortly,” patron Deek Togliatti of Murphy said.
“Shop with a Cop is unique among Christmas programs because we spend the day with the kids. We’re building relationships for the kids, who are afraid or whose families have had negative experiences. It’s just an opportunity to build bridges. Generally, if kids see a cop it’s a bad day, but this is fun and it’ll be a good day,” Unaka Fire Chief Ann Lukens said.
Watch for Shop with a Cop donation jars coming to local businesses soon. The event will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.
Details: Call 828-837-2214.