As temperatures continue to drop, the importance of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 198’s “Shop with a Cop” program continues to rise. On Dec. 7, 75 area children participated in the program at Noblesville’s Meijer store, 17000 Mercantile Blvd., and picked out warm winter clothes to protect them from the elements.
“It’s an opportunity to see in real time a positive impact in the community – even if it is just one or two children,” said Noblesville Police Officer Jon Williams, who has coordinated program every year since its beginning. “All of the officers have been called to negative situations. We like to think as police officers that in the larger scheme, we are making the world a better place. For this one- to two-hour timeframe you are making a difference that lasts a lot longer than this singular event.”
Williams said the “Shop with a Cop” participants – infants to 16-year-olds – come from a holiday assistance list given to the Noblesville F.O.P. by Nancy Chance of Good Samaritan Network or from recommendations of police officers.
“One officer is out shopping with the family he recommended,” Williams said. “He has dealt with the family, been in their home, seen the rough conditions and time they were going through.”
“Shop with a Cop” participants walk around the store, and, with the help of adults, pick out winter clothes including coats, gloves, shirts, pants, boots and even underwear and pajamas. Once all the children have the proper clothes for the cold climates, they head over to the toy department to select a present.
The “Shop with a Cop” program has expanded to a family affair.
“Even our officers’ older children come and help out,” Williams said.
“I let my wife pick out the clothes and I push the cart,” F.O.P. Lodge President Mike Sadler said.
Officer Matt Johnston and his wife, Beth, have been volunteering together for 10 years.
“It’s a more comfortable situation for the females,” Matt said. “I don’t know what they need. I don’t want them to feel uncomfortable talking to the officers.”
“Spouses make a good team. We’re used to buying for our kids,” Beth said. “It’s something we look forward to because you know you are making it a Christmas for them.”
Those interested in donating to next year’s fund can contact Williams at 770-5754 or mail the donation to: Noblesville F.O.P. Lodge No. 198, P.O. Box 1303, Noblesville, 46061.
