Every year, the “Shop with a Cop” event brings smiles and holiday cheer to children and families in our community. This year was no exception, as Hot Springs Village police officers and children came together for a memorable day of shopping, fun, and festive spirit.
On the morning of December 17, the second annual “Shop with a Cop” event was held at the local Walmart Super Center. Police officers partnered with children from area families to help them shop for Christmas gifts. This affair, a coordinated effort between Hot Springs Village Walmart, the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (CPAAA), and the Hot Springs Village Police Department, aimed to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community while spreading holiday joy.
“Shop with a Cop is more than just a holiday event; it’s an opportunity to build trust and strengthen connections within our community. Witnessing the joy on these children’s faces reminds us why we do what we do. We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this event possible.” – Hot Springs Village Police Chief Kristi Bennett
The officers made a majestic entry as a parade of police cars, sirens wailing and lights flashing, pulled into the parking lot, delighting children, parents, and Walmart staff. As the crowd mingled and made its way into the store, each child was given a t-shirt from the CPAAA and a bag of goodies from Walmart associates before selecting a special gift from a generously laden table of toys. These items were collected in a toy drive conducted by the store. Magical-looking elves and Jolly Old St Nick assisted with the lively event, and even Mr. Grinch was spotted, although we didn’t see him crack a smile.
The excitement didn’t stop there. The shopping adventure officially commenced as each child was paired with a police officer who carefully listened to their wishes and guided them through the store to select more gifts. Small groups traipsed back and forth through the store aisles, closely examining many items. The joy on the children’s faces was palpable as they navigated amongst the many wonderous treasures, choosing toys, clothes, and whatever their hearts desired.
Robert Neilson, General Manager of the HSV Walmart enthused, “We look forward to this event all holiday season! The store associates immerse themselves in the festivities by dressing up in costumes to enhance the experience for the kids. We are happy to participate with the Hot Springs Village Police and CPAAA in providing this joyous experience for area children.”
Patty Millburn, Personnel Manager and “Shop with a Cop” event planner, exclaimed, “We love doing it!”
After the shopping spree, it was time to pay for the carts full of treasures. Half of the money to fund the shopping sprees comes from the CPAAA. The additional fifty percent was provided through the HSV Police Association Fund created by HSVPD employees. Every officer or dispatcher contributes $5 or $10 a pay period. Notably, to avoid disappointing the little ones, most officers even reached into their pockets to make up the difference when the available funds didn’t match the children’s choices.
As a grand finale, everyone enjoyed treats and drinks provided by Walmart—because who doesn’t get hungry and thirsty after an hour of enthusiastic shopping?
If you are interested in being involved in events such as this, click here to visit the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association website where you can learn about the Citizens Police Academy.
Click on the video below to view the fun!
By Cheryl Dowden; Videography Joe Dowden; Photography Joe and Cheryl Dowden
Click here to contact the HSV Gazette.
Click here to join our private Hot Springs Village Property Owners Facebook group. Be sure to answer the entry questions.
Click here to visit the POA website – Explore the Village.
