Each year, local law enforcement agencies come together to brighten the spirits of children and their families during the annual Shop with a Cop event. This year, the on-going COVID-19 pandemic required our local heroes to get a little more creative.
Using the code name “Operation Special Delivery,” UMPD officers joined other officers from the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, Northfield Police, Chelsea Police and Saline Police to shop with their participating children via a Zoom call. Officers and volunteers purchased items from the child’s wish list from the Meijer on Jackson Rd. in Ann Arbor and then made a special delivery at the child’s home that night.
“Shop with a Cop is one of K9 Nike and I’s favorite events of the year. It truly is about giving back,” said K9 Police Officer Sue Upton. “I am glad we were able to still connect with the children and families in need in our community, especially during financially difficult times for many.”
The event is fully funded through donations and aims to provide children with not only a shopping spree at Meijer, gift cards to restaurants, a gas card and an evening of fun, but also essentials such as winter coats, gloves, socks, underwear and other necessary items. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many local families needed these things now more than ever.
The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office collects donations year-round to support the event. All of the proceeds go toward the event to support the local families in need. If you’re interested in donating, you can do so by visiting the Shop with a Cop Facebook page and clicking “shop now.”