Marietta Police Department Hosts 'Shop With A Cop' Event

Press release from Marietta Police Department:

Dec. 8, 2022

The Annual MPD SHOP WITH A COP event took place this morning at the 210 Cobb Parkway Walmart, and due to help from our community, assisted a new record number of children.

As we have done in the past, Teachers and Administrators from the Marietta City School System nominated children that might not have otherwise been able to celebrate Christmas. Up from last year, SIXTY TWO children were able to participate this morning! With the cost of all goods rising, each child was allocated approximately $250 to spend on themselves and their family. Their parents completed a list of things that would best benefit the child, including clothing sizes. Each child then went Christmas shopping, paired with an MPD Officer, Ambassador, Police Civilian Representative, or Volunteer.

As if that was not already amazing enough, the story does not stop there. Santa made an appearance to talk and take photos with the children after they finished shopping. Walmart provided a room for us to gather, as well as snacks and drinks for all the participants. Volunteer “elves” from WellStar Kennestone Hospital gift wrapped each item the children purchased as presents for their families. Volunteers from Riverstone Church brought arts and crafts for the participants to make while they waited for their presents to be wrapped, and their friends to finish shopping. Local volunteer, Gisela Magnus, knitted hats and each child was able to pick one out to take home.

This annual event would not be possible without the support of several Marietta business and organizations, including but not limited to:

• American Legion Post 29
• Women’s Auxiliary for American Legion Post 29
• Ed Voyles
• Dr. Marvin Tark
• Wal Mart
• Marietta City Schools
• Multiple private donations

This was truly a shining example of our community coming together to support a cause.

This press release was produced by Marietta Police Department. The views expressed here are the author's own.