(Photo courtesy of Metro Creative)

MARQUETTE — The Marquette County Law Enforcement Administrators Association, in collaboration with the Marquette County Department of Health and Human Services and the Marquette Alger Child Abuse and Neglect Council, is continuing an annual holiday tradition. On Saturday, Dec. 14, local law enforcement officers will team up with 50 Marquette County kids to fulfill their holiday wishlists. This initiative aims to strengthen connections between law enforcement and the communities they serve while making the holiday a bit brighter for children and families in need.

Since 2009, hundreds of children have enjoyed this special shopping experience alongside a uniformed officer from all jurisdictions across Marquette County. All of the agencies involved wish to create some joyful holiday memories, support families, and improve community relationships.

Shop with a Cop is an important and fun event that works to bridge gaps, and nurture a spirit of community between law enforcement and those they serve. Children will be transported to the Marquette Wal-Mart via a Checker Transport, where they will be paired with a uniformed officer and receive a $100 gift card to purchase holiday gifts for their family members. A complimentary lunch will be provided for both the children and officers, courtesy of McDonald’s of Marquette/Ishpeming.

“This community tradition brings together allies from all across Marquette dedicated to the safety of our community’s children. Each year it is such a joy to see the kids’ faces light up,” said Monet Borione, Project Director for the Marquette Alger CAN Council and event coordinator since 2017, in a news release. “Kids are so proud to show their love to others through gift giving and creating holiday memories together.”

The program is made possible thanks to donations from Wal-Mart Spark Good Local Grant, Eagle Mine, law enforcement, community members, and local businesses. Special thanks to Radio Results Network, Marquette Wal-Mart, Checker Transport, Northern Lights Child Advocacy Center, and the Marquette West Rotary.

You can help sponsor children for this event by sending donations to Northern Lights Child Advocacy Center c/o “Shop With a Cop,” 3210 US 41, Marquette, MI 49855. You can also donate online by visiting https://northernlightscac.org/shop-with-a-cop-2024, or text SHOPCOP24 to 44-321.