Gulfport Police hosts ‘Shop with a Cop’ with local children

The Gulfport Police Department and Walmart came together to make the holidays a little brighter for some kids in their community.

Five children, along with teenagers, were treated to a $350 shopping spree today.

The shoppers were paired up with officers from the Gulfport Police Department for their “Shop with a Cop” initiative.

This event allows the children to choose gifts for themselves, friends, and family members.

It also fosters better relationships between law enforcement and the community they serve.

“Seeing the smiles on their faces as well as the officers interacting with the community building these relationships, prior to going to see them in some sort of tragedy is when you see them beforehand you build these relationships it’s much better place for us,” said Chief Adam Cooper of the Gulfport Police.

“Real fun, I got a lot of stuff that was on my Christmas list. I’m going to remember this and maybe a story to tell my future kids one day,” said Dracen Lewis, student from the Boys and Girls Club.

Gulfport Police Department would like to thank all the sponsors who were able to make this happen.