HATTIESBURG, MS (WDAM) -
Christmas comes early for dozens of children thanks to LPD
Every year the Laurel Police Department and the Mississippi State
Fop choose underprivileged children to Shop with a Cop.
This year the LPD chose 34 children who were able to spend up to $150
on anything they wanted.
"They're excited, they're young children and their so excited
and makes us excited for them too," said Uncle Jerris Chamblee.
Children and their parents met with Laurel officers Saturday
morning at the local Walmart.
"The majority of the officers that actually work here, they
take out a little bit of money out of their checks every pay period, not only
that, the money comes out of donations, fundraiser's, and we do this throughout
the year just for this particular day," said City of Laurel Chief of
Police Tyrone Stewart.
Thanks to Shop with a Cop, many children were able to get more
gifts this Christmas season.
"This is a very helpful thing that the police department is
doing for these kids and I would invite any and everyone next year to help
participate and giving," said Aunt Minnie Stevens. "It's a wonderful cause for
these kids."
For now the LPD is glad they are able to make a child's Christmas wish
list come true.
"The majority of officers you see here this morning, they are
not getting paid overtime, they have volunteered to do this," said Chief
Stewart "This is something we love to do, giving back to the community."
Last year nine children participated in the Shop with a Cop
Program. Chief Steward hopes next year they can raise enough money to help more
than 50 children participate in the program.
Copyright 2012 WDAM. All rights reserved.
