Cops and kids were dressed in Santa hats and holiday ties today -- in 60-degree December weather-- as they participated in the fourth Shop with a Cop event.
All law enforcement agencies in Calhoun County joined the fun, in partnership with the state Department of Health and Human Services. Police personnel and 75 pre-selected children from across the county gathered at the Emmett Township Department of Public Safety building this morning to begin the day.
After a quick breakfast and meet-and-greet with police, the group loaded up Battle Creek Transit buses for a trip to Walmart. Police helped the kids pick out a gift for themselves and budget how to spend on gifts for family members and friends.
The group returned to Emmett Township DPS for lunch and wrapping of all the purchased gifts.
A big thank you to the numerous agencies, groups, and individuals who supported this community effort to give our local children both a great holiday experience and positive interaction with our police officers.