Each year, Columbus, Georgia Lodge #9 hosts the Cops and Kids shopping event. This event, which has been held for more than ten years, is one of our most popular because it brings smiles to so many in the community–officers, volunteers, and children alike!
The Lodge raises funds from community donations to support this event throughout the year. Every year, families who are struggling financially are chosen and meet with local law enforcement officers to shop for gifts with their families. With the community’s help, the Lodge has made sure hundreds of underprivileged children (3-14 yrs old) receive Christmas gifts.
How Cops & Kids Works
Participants are selected through Public School Systems and other organizations throughout the community. The children who participate are given an allotted sum of money (determined by the amount of donations received and the number of families that apply) and encouraged to shop for gifts they want for Christmas. However, officers who take part note that many of the children prefer to use the opportunity to shop for gifts for other family members or needed items such as a warmer coat or blanket. It is truly heartwarming to see children who have so little acting so unselfishly and helping others.
The Lodge’s Cops and Kids Program also fosters positive interactions between law enforcement officers and children. Some children who come from underprivileged homes have only negative perceptions of officers. This positive, fun event allows them to interact directly with members and see that their local law enforcement officers are caring, friendly people who want to help them.
