Despite pandemic, Shop With a Cop will proceed

     The Jones County Family Council is making preparations for the Fourth Annual Shop With a Cop program.

     During the week of Dec. 7-10, middle school children throughout Jones County will have the opportunity to scour the aisles of Wal-Mart in Anamosa to shop for the holidays alongside a friendly law enforcement officer. The children will be shopping for gifts for their family members and loved ones.

     With the goal of serving 60 kids last year, Sherri Hunt, a member of the Family Council, said they reached that goal thanks to the generous support of many different organizations and individuals. Each child received a $100 gift card to spend, all of which was supported through donations and grants. Hunt is hoping to again hit that 60-child participation mark, with an opportunity to serve even more children.

     “We know the need is out there,” she said. “Children and families are dealing daily with the struggles of living through a pandemic. We hope we can add a little light to these difficult times.

     “I think the event represents the true spirit of the holiday season by teaching our children to give and be kind,” continued Hunt. “And it’s so much fun with such wonderful law enforcement officers and volunteers. It’s a true community effort.”

     Planning is different this year as the Jones County Family Council works hard to continue this event while dealing with the pandemic. Masks and social distancing are required and school districts will each be participating on a different day that first week of December. Times will also be staggered for students participating.

     Hunt also added that local law enforcement agencies, all Jones County middle schools, Wal-Mart, and the Anamosa State Penitentiary are all on board to participate again this year.

     “Everyone has such a great time with this event and are eager to again participate and help out where needed. They are willing to do whatever it takes to make this a safe and fun event for our kiddos.”

     Hunt shared that the penitentiary graciously holds its own internal fundraiser, and last year were able to raise over $3,600. Combined with grants from DuTrac and Wal-Mart, as well as various private donations, over $6,000 was raised to support the 60 participating children in 2019.

     The Jones County Family Council is all about preventing child abuse and protecting children. By partnering with several law enforcement agencies, Hunt said they want these middle schoolers to know that these officials are good people and someone they can turn to in time of need.

     “Building that relationship is so important,” Hunt said.

     Shop with a Cop serves fifth through eighth graders in the Anamosa, Midland, Monticello, and Olin school districts. Hunt said she works closely with school counselors to help identify students.

     “It’s all about sharing the joy,” she said. “We want the kids to feel important and experience the joy of giving so maybe someday they’ll be inspired to give back in their community.”

     Hunt is still seeking donations to help fulfill their goal of serving 60-plus youth for the event. Donations can be dropped off at both the Anamosa and Monticello Police Departments or mailed to the Jones County Family Council, P.O. Box 472, Anamosa, IA 52205. You can also contact the Family Council at jonescountycppc@gmail.com or Hunt at sherri.hunt@co.jones.ia.us or 319-551-3402 for more information.

     “It’s really a fun program to oversee. People get excited about it and it’s a great avenue of giving,” Hunt said.