Dec 20, 2024, 2:58 AM
Building Community Bonds Through Holiday Shopping
Herkimer Police hosted their annual "Shop With a Cop" event, bringing joy to 45 students from the Herkimer Central School District. Each child, chosen by teachers based on positive attributes like kindness and respect, shopped at Walmart with a police officer and received around $300 to spend on holiday gifts. Sergeant James Burns highlighted the event's significance, emphasizing the positive community engagement and the pleasure it brings to both officers and children. Now in its seventh year, this initiative strengthens relationships between law enforcement and the community, offering a unique, positive interaction for students. Principal Renee Vogt praised the program for bridging gaps between schools, families, and police, fostering goodwill during the holiday season.