Cecil County Hosts 5th Annual Shop With A Cop

From the Maryland State Police Department: Santa is making his way to town again for Cecil County’s 5th Annual Shop with A Cop (SWAC), the largest event to date in the region.

This year’s event hosts 86 kids from 40 different families throughout Cecil County with a cruise down the aisles of Walmart, accompanied by Santa’s helpers, also known as Cecil County’s law enforcement officers.
Saturday, December 10th kicks off at 9:00 a.m. at the North East Fire Hall. Each child pairs up with an officer who escorts them throughout the day’s events. This year, 85 officers from various agencies will participate in the fun. The kids ride in a parade of police cars and flashing lights to Walmart and then, the real magic happens.

Equipped with a shopping cart, a generous budget, and the aid of Santa’s police crew, the kids get to pick out clothes and toys they’ll open under the tree on Christmas day. It’s truly something childhood dreams are made of. After the shopping spree, everyone heads back to the firehouse for a meal and a visit from Santa. Meanwhile, volunteers wrap the gifts up for the kids to take home. Upon departure, each family receives a Christmas turkey donated by Walmart. SWAC also provides each family with a breakfast, lunch and dinner – enough food to feast on for the entire Christmas day.

Of course, the day could not run smoothly without some additional helping hands. This year, around 215 volunteers will help at the event, including surrounding schools and businesses. Trent Enterprises from Elkton, Maryland also donated a hauling truck, complete with a lift to take the toys back to the firehouse. Maryland State Police Captain, and president of SWAC explains that Trent Enterprises is “a big supporter and sponsor for SWAC.” Overall, 800 supporters are expected to be at the event. That makes this year’s SWAC day the largest one yet! And of course, spectators come from all over town to cheer on the kids during their special day.

SWAC provides something unique for the community. Our police officers fill some big shoes year round, and it’s not an easy job. This day gives law enforcement and citizens the chance to take a step away from the daily grind. It’s a day to come together and bring some happiness to families in our own county.

The SWAC event is larger than ever and lends a helping hand to Old Saint Nick. Captain Russell invites everyone to come out and support the kids as they run through the aisles of Walmart with the Boys in Blue.

Image via Pixabay