Idaho Falls Kids “Shop With A Cop”

Saturday was the annual “Shop with a Cop” event for dozens of local kids.

In Idaho Fall, 29 kids, ages 5 to 12, were paired up with a law enforcement officer for breakfast at the Le Ritz hotel and then shopping at K-Mart to buy gifts for their loved ones.

The kids were chosen through an application process. The event targets those who may have been negatively affected by law enforcement in the past, such as watching a relative get arrested.

The highlight of the day seemed to be unanimous.

“I got to ride in the cop car and play the sirens,” said James, 10.

“It’s a great experience to be able to go shopping with these young individuals, enjoy a day outside normal duties and shed some happiness for the holidays,” said Sgt. Doug Metcalf.

The event is organized every year by the Idaho Falls Civitan Club, which hosts fundraisers and takes donations to make it all possible.