(Le Mars) — 14 youngsters were given some assistance with their holiday shopping last evening as members of the Le Mars Police Department and Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office participated in the annual “Shop With A Cop” program. Le Mars Police Assistant Chief Justin Daale says this was the
third year for the program, as officers helped the children purchase gifts for their family, and for themselves.
Daale says the money for the program is raised through their police association, or by generous contributions from through out the community.
The Assistant Police Chief says teachers and other school officials help identify the children and families that can most benefit from the program.
Daale says many times the children are prepared for the shopping experience as they have compiled a list.
Daale says each student is given a budget for their shopping needs.
Daale says after selecting and purchasing the gifts, the students assisted with the wrapping of those gifts.
Daale says the Le Mars Police Department was approached by a community citizen three years ago with the idea for the program. The citizen was aware of a similar program in Colorado, and wondered if it could be incorporated locally.
