JOHNSON CITY — As the holidays approach, the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) is preparing for its 10th annual Shop with a Cop event. This beloved tradition, a partnership between the JCPD and Johnson City Schools, pairs police officers with elementary school students in need for an evening of holiday festivities, including dinner at Wild Wing Cafe, a visit with Santa, a tour of Candy Land Christmas at Founders Park, and a shopping spree at Walmart.

Last year, the program brightened the lives of more than 80 children, and JCPD expects even more students to participate this year. In addition to the festive evening, the program also provides gifts and winter clothing for all children in the household, as well as a holiday package of food for the family.

“Our department looks forward to this night all year,” said JCPD Chief Billy Church. “It’s a magical night for the children and a cherished tradition for our officers. We are extremely grateful to our donors and volunteers who make Shop with a Cop bigger and better every year.”

The success of Shop with a Cop is due to the generous support of the community, and JCPD is asking for continued contributions of time and money to ensure this year’s event is as impactful as ever.

Tax-deductible donations are now being accepted and can be made to the City of Johnson City. Please indicate “Shop with a Cop” in the memo line. Donations can be mailed to: Attn: Shop with a Cop, JCPD, PO Box 2150, Johnson City, TN 37605 or dropped off at the JCPD in the Municipal and Safety Building at 601 E. Main St.

For those who wish to purchase special items for Shop with a Cop participants, gift registries will be available online at Amazon, Target and Walmart throughout the year.

This year’s Shop with a Cop event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 11. The JCPD looks forward to providing another unforgettable holiday experience for the children and families involved.