Sarasota Police Spread Holiday Cheer At Target

SARASOTA, FL — Sarasota police spread a little holiday cheer on Saturday when the department invited some local residents to "Shop with a Cop at Target."

"Shop with a Cop is a great opportunity for children and police officers to get to know each other at a friendly, fun event like buying Christmas presents for themselves and family members," explained Sarasota Police Chief Bernadette DiPino. "Over the years I have seen the generosity and heart of our officers who reach into their own pockets to cover overages at the register. The smiles I have witnessed on the faces of the children and the officers is priceless."

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Saturday was no exception as 100 local underprivileged children teamed with local law enforcement to shop for holiday gifts at a local Target store prior to the store opening for the day.

This year's event took place at the Target located at 5350 Fruitville Road, Sarasota.

The annual holiday event represents a partnership among the Sarasota Housing Authority, Sarasota Police Department and Target.

"Having a safe and strong community begins with having mutual trust and respect between community members and the men and women sworn to protect them," said Sarasota Housing Authority CEO William Russell.

Those wishing to donate can do so through the Sarasota Housing Funding Corporation (SHFC). Checks can be made payable to Sarasota Housing Funding Corporation with Shop with a Cop' in the memo line. Credit card donations can be made online here.

Checks or cash donations can also be dropped off at the Sarasota Housing Authority, 269 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota; Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. to Noon.

For more information on the Shop with a Cop Program, contact the Sarasota Housing Authority at 941-361-6210. All donations will be spent on Target gift cards for children.

Photo courtesy Sarasota Police Department