The Parsons Police Department held their Shop with a Cop event on Sunday, Dec. 14. Local officers shopped at Walmart with children and their caregivers.
Officer Frank Pousher said his favorite part of the day was spending with the kids while they are shopping.
Alexis Nicole Lee, one of the shoppers, said she was most excited about getting Stitch-themed items, fashioned after the “Lilo and Stitch” character.
Samantha Root, a local mom said this was her first time participating.
“It’s a pretty cool experience,” Root said of shopping with her son, Malaki Emanuel.
Malaki said he enjoyed “all of it.”
Detective Sergeant Tony Adamson also said he enjoyed spending time with the kids. “I’ve enjoyed seeing that they are not only thinking about themselves, but they are buying for siblings, grandparents and parents.”
Nyla Kendrick shopped with her mother, Hailey Brown, and Sergeant Christian Smith. She said a fluffy blanket was the gift she thought would be best received.
“It’s been great,” Nyla said about the day. See COP, Page 5.
Brown said she appreciated the Parsons Police Department participating in the event.
“This is a great thing. It’s a great thing to do for the community. I love it,” Brown said.
Smith said seeing Nyla happy as she shopped was his favorite part of the day.
Deputy Chief Dennis Dodd said the event is great for the officers each year.
“There are officers who I have to push to do it, and they end up loving it. It’s a great thing,” Dodd said.
Funds are raised throughout the year through the Parsons Police Legacy Fund and through fundraisers such as the annual Duke Mason concert. This year’s concert raised over $4,000 for the event. In total, $16,965.16, was raised this year. Major donors include: Walmart, $5,000; Parsons St. Vincent de Paul, $1,500; and the Postal Carriers Association, $1,500.
In a press release after the Duke Mason concert, Chief Robert Spinks said “Parsons continues to show that when we come together, we create real and lasting impact. The support we’ve received ensures that many young people in our community will experience holiday joy and positive engagement with our officers.”
Lieutenant Kyle Wiford added: “Shop with a Cop is one of the most rewarding events of the year. Seeing the smiles, hearing the laughter, and feeling the holiday spirit with these kids is something our officers truly cherish. This community continues to amaze us with its kindness and support.”
