'Shop with a Cop' brings Christmas to local kids

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MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  With the holiday season upon us, security forces personnel from across the base just completed the 6th annual "Shop with a Cop" event. Six years ago, members of the 5th Security Forces Squadron, created the Shop with a Cop program with the primary purpose of giving disadvantaged children a holiday gift while interacting with civilian law enforcement officers in a positive setting.

Security Forces members from the 5th SFS, 91st Security Force Group, along with the Minot Police Department, Ward County Sheriff's Department, North Dakota Highway Patrol, and members of the Transportation Security Administration have raised funds and escorted children in this great event each year.

During the special day, children ranging from 5 to 15 years of age who are a part of the Ward County Companions for Children, were paired with a security forces member, deputy, officer or trooper at a local business and were given a shopping card to purchase the holiday gifts of their choosing, with the assistance of a cop. The children were given one $150 gift card each.

"No child should miss out on the joy of the holiday season," said Master Sgt. James Moore, 5th SFS Superintendent of Plans and Programs. "The opportunities these children have to shop with the military and civilian police officers promote long lasting memories."

"Shop with a Cop is a way for Police Officers to give a great holiday to these children. Most of these children would not get a Christmas gift if not for this program. It is another way for police to give back to the community we care so much about and do our best to protect. It is a wonderful and rewarding experience that allows us to make a difference in these children's lives," said Staff Sgt. Sarah Donis, 5th SFS.

This event is only possible through fundraising and personal contributions of security and law enforcement personnel and the generous donations received. Since this program's creation, security forces members and community law enforcement officers raised $35,000 and escorted 498 children.