Shop With a Cop helps students prepare for school

Thanks to the efforts of the Putnam County Fraternal Order of Police numerous students will return to school prepared for success after another successful Shop With a Cop program recently.

According to event organizer Amanda Brown, there were 21 students identified and 15 showed up to shop with area law enforcement.  

"We took this opportunity to identify a time for those that could benefit to provide them with some necessary school supplies and clothing to fill the gap of those that could not make it today. We had 18 officers and helpers shop with the children. Shop with a Cop is an event that happens every year right before school starts where we identify families that could benefit from a little extra help to start the school year. We buy what school supplies they need and buy them some school clothes. This and similar programs would not be possible without the generous support of our community," Brown told The Putnam County Post.

For Brown, the event highlights much of what she loves with her role within the FOP. 

"I enjoy watching law enforcement interact with community families in a positive light. I also enjoy when an officer picks out something for the child and they hate it. The police put on funny hats and love being able to humanize themselves. At the end of the day, they are humans too," she said. 

And, it further cements her drive to continue to help the community through various FOP events.

"I cannot wait to continue to build the Putnam County FOP to be bigger and better. To put us in a position to provide help when help is needed. Like this year we were able to hand out school supplies for the community night out. We are dedicated to protecting and serving our community, in all capacities," Brown said.