The Phoenix Police Department/Phoenix Law Enforcement Association’s “Shop With A Cop” event was held at the Target store, located in the Spectrum Mall at 5719 North 19th Avenue on Tuesday, December 17, 2013.. Phoenix Police Officers and PLEA Members donated their time and money in continuing efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of children living in Phoenix. Additionally, members of the Arizona Probation Officers Association, AZPOA, brought children from the jurisdictions they serve, bringing the total number of participants to approximately 90 children.
After being picked up by Phoenix Police Officers, the children had breakfast, which was cooked by members of the Capitol-Gateway Kiwanis Club. After breakfast, everyone went outside to await the arrival of “Blue Santa” who landed in the parking lot courtesy of the Phoenix Police Department Air Unit. The children had the opportunity to meet and have a picture taken with Santa before heading into the store to begin shopping.
Then it was time for the fun to begin. Each child, accompanied by their Phoenix Police Officer, went shopping. Every participant was allotted $150.00 to spend with $75.00 of that specifically dedicated to purchase gifts for themselves. Clothing was a priority, but they could purchase toys as well, with the exception of electronics or game systems. To encourage the Christmas Spirit and the gift of giving, the remaining $75.00 was to be used to purchase gifts for family members. When everyone was finished shopping, time was set aside to wrap their gifts before they were dropped back off at their respective schools.
This event would not have been possible without the cooperative effort of the Phoenix Police Department, Target, and the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association. PLEA appreciates and thanks all the officers who took time out of their work day to participate.
Funding for this program was made possible by corporate donations from the Target, private donations from Phoenix citizens and businesses, and PLEA Charities. PLEA extends its gratitude and appreciation to our community partners for their donations and support. Without them, we would not have been able to put this event together. We are eagerly looking forward to next year’s event!