Community donations are currently being taken for the 2026 Shop with a Cop, set to return from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 12 at Rochester Walmart.
Shop with a cop is a community outreach and holiday program that pairs local children in need with police officers and other law enforcement and emergency personnel for a guided shopping spree for the holidays. Each child receives a budget funded through the donations.
The program was first brought to Rochester by former police officer Dennis Price in 1996, marking this year the 30th anniversary for Fulton County Shop With a Cop.
Those interested in donating can mail funds to FOP Lodge 143, P.O. Box 284, Rochester, IN 46975. All checks can be made payable to the lodge. People may also contact Gail Karas at 574-835-2992 to pick up their donations.
Their annual Trot With a Cop 5k event on November 21, at the Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Rochester, with registration starting at 8:30 a.m. and kicking off at 9:30 a.m. Participants are able to either walk or run the 5k, with different divisions ranging between men, women and age groups.
The cost is $20 per person and includes a participation metal and free bowl of soup at the end. Shirts will also be available for an additional fee.
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