Baltimore County's holiday spirit was in full force this past Saturday as over 100 local children paired with police officers to embark on a special shopping spree in the 23rd annual Shop with a Cop event. Each child, equipped with $100, thanks to members of the Optimist Club of Baltimore County, set out at the Walmart in Cockeysville to purchase gifts for their families. According to FOX Baltimore, the event began bright and early at 8 a.m. and featured a variety of toys, games, and heartfelt gifts selected by the children.
Initiatives like this one aim to build bridges between law enforcement and community members, starting with the youngest among us. "It's a great opportunity to give back to the community and connect with the young people," Officer Smith expressed in a statement detailed by CBS News Baltimore. One participant, Jordan, shared his bounty with CBS Baltimore, listing "some toy guns, a Harry Potter plushie for one of my aunts, and a leaky box, mystery box" among his finds.
The Shop with a Cop program has a storied history in Baltimore County, originally founded by retired officer Michael Schmitz Sr. over two decades ago. Schmitz recounted that he started the program with a more modest budget of $2,500, but with the help of the Optimist Club, which later pledged support, the initiative quickly grew. "23 years with 100 kids a year. That's a lot of kids," reflected Schmitz. This historical tidbit, shared during an interview with CBS News Baltimore, underscores not just the tenure but also the program's impact, having touched thousands of children's lives over the years.
Alongside the shopping, Hunt Valley Mission BBQ provided breakfast for the participants, adding a layer of community celebration to the event. Moreover, the Youth and Community Services Unit within the police department also demonstrated their support by raffling off a brand-new bike, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
