Bowling Green’s Heartwarming “Shop With A Cop” Event Brightens Holiday Season
As Christmas approaches, the spirit of giving is thriving in Bowling Green! On Tuesday evening, the Bowling Green Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) organized a delightful event called Shop With A Cop, bringing smiles and joy to around 50 families in the community at Meijer. This heartwarming initiative allows children to pick out Christmas gifts with the help of local police officers, all while reinforcing positive relationships between law enforcement and families.
A Special Shopping Experience
The excitement was palpable as participants arrived, each child equipped with $100 to spend tax-free on gifts. From shiny toys in colorful packaging to warm winter wear, the aisles of Meijer were buzzing with laughter and holiday cheer. FOP President Mike Nade highlighted that the organization has hosted this event for approximately 15 years, providing both essential back-to-school shopping opportunities and festive holiday shopping experiences.
For many children, this event is not just about indulging themselves; many want to shop for their loved ones. “We see a lot of kids that have great hearts and they want to get a grandma something or their parents something,” shared Nade. “It’s heartwarming to see kids thinking of others.”
Connecting with the Community
Smiths Grove Police Department Sgt. Rick Bessette joined in on the fun at the event, dividing his time between chatting with the kids and helping them pick out their perfect presents. According to Bessette, the initiative is a wonderful opportunity to foster positive interactions with the community, particularly during a season typically filled with joyous celebrations. “Most of the time, when we have contact with people, it’s their worst day,” he explained. “These events are positive. There’s no negativity involved.”
Building Lasting Relationships
This year’s event was extra special for many little ones who’ve been counting down the days until they could go shopping with a cop. Abbey Kitchens, the chief operating officer for the local Boys and Girls Club, mentioned that the children eagerly anticipate the experience. “They start asking me around October when they get to shop with a cop,” she said with a smile.
Not only does this event provide holiday cheer, but it also promotes understanding and camaraderie between children and law enforcement. By allowing kids to engage with police officers in a non-threatening and joyful environment, the initiative strengthens community ties and enhances trust in local law enforcement.
Aiding Families in Need
But that’s not all! The FOP has plans for more to support local families in need this December. They are organizing a food drive, set to distribute baskets of vital goods like milk, chicken, and assorted dry goods to families who may be struggling. These will be hand-delivered by officers on December 21 to ensure families receive the support they need during the holiday season.
The Shop With A Cop event and the upcoming food drive are just two ways the FOP is making a positive impact on the Bowling Green community. Such initiatives show the importance of community engagement and the joy that comes from helping others — making this holiday season truly special!
For everyone involved, from the officers to the families, it’s clear that events like these bring us all together in more ways than one. As the lights twinkle and the holiday spirit fills the air, it seems that in Bowling Green, love, kindness, and community support are always in season!
