Nevada Police plan 2016 Shop With a Cop

Nevada Daily Mail

The members of the Nevada Police Department hope to make this holiday season brighter by doing something positive for the children of the community. The police officers and their families are preparing for the annual Shop with a Cop Program.

The purpose of the Shop with a Cop program is to provide gifts to disadvantaged children and their families while allowing them to interact with law enforcement officers in a positive setting.

The only requirement for the participating children is that they buy at least one item for themselves. We find that the last thing these children generally think about is themselves as they learn an important lesson on the spirit of giving.

The program is funded solely by donations from the community. Many service organizations, business owners and individuals take the opportunity to give back through this program.

Children are nominated for participation in the program by police department members, school employees, social agencies and family shelters. Anyone can nominate a local child who meets the criteria of being between the ages of 6 and 11 and who has a social or economic need. This year's event will be held in December at the Nevada Walmart.

Community participation is very welcome for the Shop with a Cop program. If you would like to donate your time or money to help make a child's Christmas special, or would like to nominate a child, please contact Nevada Police Officer Justin Varner at 417-448-5128.

Donations can be mailed to Shop with a Cop, c/o Nevada Police Department, 120 S. Ash, Nevada MO, or an officer will pick up the donation upon request.