Officers from various departments throughout Fulton County made 280 kids Christmas season a little brighter over the weekend during the Fulton County FOP Lodge 143's 27th annual 'Shop With A Cop'.
The event was held at the Rochester Walmart on Saturday. Each child received $100, and was able to pick out their own clothes and toys while shopping with officers.
The kids, officers and other volunteers were also treated with doughnuts, coffee, and other beverages thanks to donations from Dunkin' Donuts and Starbucks.
'Shop with a Cop' benefits underprivileged children from throughout the area who are identified through nine programs in the area including local schools, churches, and social service agencies. The program is also intended to build relationships between officers and children of the community.
The program was started in Fulton County in 1996, thanks to former police officer Dennis Price, who now serves as the program coordinator. Price served the Fulton County community for almost 50 years, working for both Kewanna and Rochester police departments, as well as being a security officer for the Fulton County Courthouse before his retirement in 2021.
Price said seeing the program more than triple from its first year, which had around 80 kids, has been rewarding. All funding was made possible by donations from community members and businesses.
Always thankful for any donations, this years allotted spending amount of $100 was cut short by $50, compared to last years $150 spending allowance, due to the number of kids participating.
Those wanting to donate for next years 'Shop with a Cop' can do so by mailing donations to P.O. Box 284, Rochester, IN 46975. Donations can also be dropped off at the Fulton County Sheriff's Office.
