Local Kids Get to 'Shop With a Cop'

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By Jennifer French

Story Published: Dec 10, 2009 at 9:04 PM CDT

Story Updated: Dec 10, 2009 at 11:37 PM CDT

There were a number of police officers at the East Peoria Walmart today.. not to fight crime.. but to shop.

Local children were able to take part in the annual "shop with a cop" event.

Each kid was given $75 to spend on anything in the store for themselves or for family members.

The program not only gives underprivileged children a chance to buy gifts, but it also helps them build positive relationships with police officers.

One kid says he used to be afraid of police officers, but trusts them more now after his shopping experience.

"I'm okay with them now," said Zakkery Reese. "I have a lot of experience with them because I live in Creve Coeur next to the fire department and everything."

"Tis the season for giving and it gives the police department a chance to give back to the community," said Chris Hutt, Deputy Chief of the East Peoria Police Department.

Deputy Hutt says that in these economic times many parents are grateful that their kids can buy gifts that they may not otherwise get.

This is the 8th year that the East Peoria Police Department has participated in Walmart's 'shop with a cop.'

Friday, Dec 11 at 3:53 PM HAPPY HOLIDAYS wrote ...

that is so nice what they are doing with the kids. that is what the christmas spirit is about. helping the kids. GOD BLESS!!!!!!!!!!

Friday, Dec 11 at 12:46 PM trenton wrote ...

this is awesome...never let your kids be "scared' of the police. They are here to help.

Friday, Dec 11 at 12:29 PM Jeremy wrote ...

Peoria City and AMT had shop with a cop a few days ago at the walmart on University.

Friday, Dec 11 at 11:40 AM HAPPY HOLIDAYS wrote ...

GOOD JOB KEEP IT UP SOME DO THANK YOU WITH ALL THEIR HEARTS.LITTLE ONES WILL REMEMBER FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES.

Friday, Dec 11 at 9:15 AM Steve in Chillicothe wrote ...

HHHmmm......Where is the story on the Peoria County Sheriffs Department Shop With a Cop Program? With these hard economic times, too bad they are not doing a similar program to help needy families on this side of the river. Guess the guys who spent thousands of donated charity dollars on golf outings and softball teams had a better charity in mind.

Thursday, Dec 10 at 10:42 PM jon wrote ...

Great job Guy's ... Have a safe and Merry Christmas

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