At the end of the event, each child left with every item gift-wrapped for them.
The Ventura Police Department partnered with the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura and the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation to host its annual Shop with a Cop event on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Walmart in Ventura. Thirty local children from low-income families and those fighting childhood cancer connected with Ventura Police officers and received $150.00 to shop for gifts for their families.
“Shop with a Cop is not just about shopping; it’s about making an impact, building connections, and creating positive memories between our officers and the youngest members of our community,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “It’s heartening to see the smiles on the faces of officers and children as they share this special experience and leave with gifts they might not have received otherwise.”
Thanks to donations from the Ventura Police Community Foundation, Walmart, Ventura Downtown Lions Club, Ventura Police Officers’ Association, Starbucks, and Costco, the Ventura Police Department was also able to provide each child with a pizza dinner, hot cocoa, festive desserts, an event t-shirt, custom tree ornament, and a $50 grocery store gift card.
At the end of the event, each child left with every item gift-wrapped for them to enjoy opening with their families.
“The holiday season can be a trying time for many families, and the need for assistance is greater than ever,” said Maria Martinez, Community Services Manager for the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura. “We are so thankful for our strong partnership with Ventura PD and the opportunity for the families we serve to maintain autonomy and choose specific items they may need or want, which means a lot to them.”
To learn more about Shop with a Cop or the Ventura Police Department’s outreach efforts, please contact Ventura Police Communications Specialist Emily Ayala at [email protected].
