DETROIT – 20 Detroit children experienced holiday shopping with a unique twist Saturday, Dec. 13, as Detroit Police officers and Police Athletic League (PAL) members accompanied them on a $250 shopping spree at Meijer.
The event, held at the Meijer store at Eight Mile and Woodward, marked the second annual Shop with a Cop program, a partnership between Detroit PAL and the Detroit Police Department.
“It’s great!” exclaimed young participant Devin Campbell.
Fellow shopper Bruce Wayne Robertson showed off his selections, including “a toy race car and lots of toys.”
Each child received $250 to spend during the Comcast-sponsored event, which totaled approximately $6,000.
Both Detroit Police officers and PAL contributed additional support to make the program possible.
The initiative serves a dual purpose: creating positive interactions between law enforcement and local youth while helping families during the holiday season.
For Brittany Martin, whose children participated in the event, it carried special meaning. “I did PAL and I got to do this, and so it’s good to see them having the same experience. They were part of my neighborhood,” she said.
Sgt. Bryant George of the Detroit Police Department and Detroit PAL emphasized the program’s impact on community relations.
“These kids are so familiar with us, and we want even more kids into PAL,” he said. “I think their faces are more excited than us. Our chief sets an example to give back, and this is our greatest form of protection.”