Baltimore County Officers Hold Shop With A Cop Event In Cockeysville
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Baltimore County Police held their 15th Annual Shop With a Cop on Saturday. It's a special tradition when police take time off their busy schedules to spread some holiday cheer.
A caravan of police cars making a very merry stop at the Walmart in Cockeysville. It's a joyous celebration for these officers and their new buddies.
"Being able to reach out to these needy children and build camaraderie with the police department and youth of today," said Officer Bakhsh, Baltimore County Police, Essex Precinct.
The perfect time to break down barriers and create some merry memories!
"It's an opportunity to build relationships," says Officer Ballard, Baltimore county police.
The have the opportunity to learn about the other roles officers play in their community.
"It's something fun to work with a cop and they teach you a lot of things and helps other people and children," said Breonna Brown, who herself got to shop with the officers.
The kids got $100 dollars to spend on themselves and others.
Ania Evans, who was shopping with a cop, took the time to grab items for loved ones.
"A skateboard and shoes and [for] my little brother, some toys," he said.
It's a special tradition that both the officers and kids look forward to.
"They enjoy it. You see their smiles knowing they're doing something good that could impact those kids down the road and keep them from going down the wrong route," said Michael Schmitz, who founded the event.
"I like to hang out with the kids, and have a good time, and enjoy watching them and what they get," said Officer Ballard.
The event reminds everyone, what the true spirit of Christmas is all about.
And the day didn't end with shopping. The officers took the children to breakfast, which was catered by Outback, donated the meals.
The event is sponsored by the optimist clubs of Baltimore county.
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