More than 20 Atlanta Public Schools Police Department (APSPD) officers joined forces with Fulton County Fraternal Order of Police to host the 2020 “Shop with a Cop” holiday event benefitting 150 children in the Atlanta area. APSPD officers donned their elves hats and masks to help APS students pick out items from their Christmas lists from an East Point Walmart.
“It was good for my soul,” said APSPD Chief Ronald Applin. “It was great to see all the kids smiling faces. They were so excited and appreciative.”
Chief Applin said each kid was able to spend a $150 Walmart gift card to shop for whatever they wanted. Each year the Fraternal Order of Police raises funds to support students with this event. Many officers even chipped in a little more to help the students cover their lists.
One special Hope Hill student, Zyan P., was recommended for “Shop with a Cop” for his heroic efforts to aid a family member who had a medical emergency during a virtual learning class. “It was a great way for us to connect with Zyan and recognize him,” said Chief Applin.
The event benefitted the students but was also great for the officers involved. “I think this event was good for our officers. They enjoyed spending time with the children and being able to experience their happiness and excitement,” Chief Applin said. “This was also an opportunity for police officers to project an image of something positive.”
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