Shop with a Cop a 'true community effort'

The Jones County Family Council is preparing for the 9th Annual Shop with a Cop event.

On Dec. 8 and Dec 15, middle school students throughout Jones County will have the opportunity to scour the aisles of WalMart in Anamosa to shop for the holidays alongside a friendly law enforcement officer. The children will be shopping for gifts for their immediate family members and loved ones. The goal is to involve 60 kids this year.

Sherri Hunt, a member of the Family Council, said organizers reached that participation goal in 2024 thanks to the generous support of many different organization and individuals. Each child received a $125 gift card to spend, all of which was supported through donations and grants.

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

Local law enforcement agencies, 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 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 said.

The Jones County Family Council’s mission is to prevent child abuse and protect area youth. By partnering with several law enforcement agencies, Hunt said the council wants middle schoolers to know that officials are good people and someone they can turn to in time of need.

Hunt shared that the Anamosa State Penitentiary holds its own internal fundraiser and last year raised almost $3,000. Combined with grants from DuTrac, Jones County We Can Make A Difference Employee organization, St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Monticello, O’Reilly Auto Parts and WalMart as well as various private donations, over $9,000 was raised to support the participating children in 2024.

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

“It’s all about sharing the joy,” Hunt 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.”

The Jones County Family Council is still seeking donations to help fulfill its goal of serving youth for the event. Donations can be dropped at both the Anamosa and Monticello police departments, the Jones County Sheriff’s office or mailed to the Jones County Family Council, PO Box 472, Anamosa, IA 52205. You can also contact the Family Council, Hunt at sherri.hunt@jonescountyiowa.gov or 319-551-3402 for more information.