HINESVILLE, Ga. — More than 130 young residents of Hinesville took part in this year’s special event organized by the Hinesville Police Department.

After a period of dedicated fundraising and support from the community, the HPD held its annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event. This initiative allowed children from Liberty County’s elementary schools to choose holiday gifts they might not otherwise receive.

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” remarked Hinesville Police Chief Tracey Howard. “This event has become a cherished tradition for us at the Hinesville Police Department. Witnessing these small miracles unfold for our young ones truly makes Christmas special for me.”

Chief Howard highlighted that the event also serves to help children feel more at ease around police officers, a sentiment echoed by many of the children’s parents and guardians:

“Often, people view officers in a negative manner, but today was different—they were spreading kindness and joy,” said Cathy Jennings, a grandmother caring for four young girls. “It’s something rare and beautiful, especially at this time of year.”

Each child was allocated $150 towards any toy of their choosing. Jennings says that without initiatives like these, the holidays would have been very difficult.

“I thank them from the bottom of my heart.”

Howard says that anyone who would like to donate toward future events can do so by contacting Sgt. Bryan Wolfe or Hinesville Police.