Local children go shopping with a cop
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CAIRO POLICE Lt. Karen Cromartie, Patrol Training Officer Brandon Griffin and Patrolman Chris Sapp are shown shopping with a local youth.
The holiday season will be a little merrier for about 40 local families who benefited this year from the Cairo Police Department’s “Shop with a Cop” program.
The program, which was started by former Cairo Police Chief Keith Sandefur many years ago, was boosted this year with many donations and fundraising efforts of the Veteran Enforcers Motorcycle Association, which is comprised of law enforcement officers, fire and rescue personnel, and military veterans. Wal-Mart is another booster, as well as a number of private organizations, according to Alyssa Blakley of the City of Cairo.
Families chosen as beneficiaries were selected based on the recommendations of the Grady County School System, Department of Family and Children Services, local churches, the Jackie Robinson Boys & Girls Club and private individuals.
Each child was provided with a Wal-Mart gift card, totaling $200 per child, and then treated to a shopping spree with the assistance of several officers and volunteers.
“Shopping with the kids and families was amazing and I had a great time fulfilling their wish lists at Wal-Mart,” stated Lt. Karen Cromartie.
According to Lt. Cromartie, there was a family of three that went over the amount that was allotted for each child. A citizen stepped in and made sure the kids got everything they had on the counter by paying the balance.
The police department and city officials thank Wal-Mart for its assistance, participation and support of the program. Volunteers included Wal-Mart employees, an employee of Grady General Hospital, DFACS personnel, parents, and Jackie Robinson Boys & Girls Club Director Stephen Francis.
Those interested in contributing to this program or volunteering should contact the Cairo Police Department at 229-378-3096.
