A Decade Dedicated to Christmas Cheer

Moore Police Department celebrates 10th anniversary of their Shop with a Cop event

BY:Thomas Iscenko

Those who have the spirit of Christmas in their hearts in turn help others find it. This notion is what drives the Moore Police Department as they prepare for the 10th anniversary of their Shop with a Cop event on Dec. 12.

Partnered with both Target and Chickfil-a since their openings in Moore on 19th Street, the Shop with a Cop program has made a positive impact on the community providing both an outlet for philanthropy and goodwill but also spreading cheer and putting smiles on the faces of hundreds of children with an unforgettable experience.

“At its core, it’s a program meant to get us involved with the community and build up a bond,” said Sgt. David Dickinson, the event’s coordinator. “It allows us to give back. It’s a fun time for the kids. They love it and so do the officers.”

Every year since 2010, Moore schools, community daycares and Moore Youth & Family Services recommended children based on need to participate in this yearly event. The celebration starts with a Chick-fil-a breakfast, followed by a rousing parade of police cars that cruise through town and down 19th Street with the pomp and circumstance of lights and sirens on their way to Target where officers and kids shop together, each with a budget of $200 dollars per child.

To commemorate the day, the kids also receive a unique silver coin, a token Dickinson said is a cherished memory for many involved.

“I still get approached by kids who took part in Shop with a Cop, eight, nine or even ten years ago. They still have their silver coin,” he said

To date, Dickinson estimates more than 270 kids have participated in the event and such a special day would not be possible if it weren’t for the community support and annual donations, Dickinson said.

“We have about 50 organizations and donors who contribute yearly to make this day possible,” he shared.

Perhaps the most magical part of this Christmas tale is that it is kids helping kids.

“The biggest contributions come from Central Junior High and Highland East Junior High,” Dickinson revealed. “They raise about half of the budget which is remarkable when you consider it takes $6,000 to $8,000 to make this event happen.”

To learn more about the Shop with a Cop program or to contribute, contact Sgt. David Dickinson with the Moore Police Department at 793-4662. -19SM