Local FOP chapter bringing cheer, gifts to kids this Christmas
DOVER (WJER) (Dec. 9, 2024) – Christmas with a Cop is back to make the holidays brighter for families in need and show law enforcement in a positive light.
Each December, the local FOP chapter buys gifts for kids whose teachers nominate them for the program and their siblings. Christmas with a Cop Co-Chair Bob Everett says the need is higher than recent years.
“We’ve got approximately 15 or so families. It’s quite a few more children than we’ve had recently. I think we can probably base that a lot on our economy and what’s happening. So we’re gonna do a little bit more shopping than normal and we’ll probably have a little higher expenditure than normal.”
Members went shopping this past weekend, buying gifts from a wishlist provided by each family that they’ll deliver in a caravan of police cruisers the Saturday before Christmas.
“We always try to get from the list their needs first like winter clothing, clothing at all, boots, hats, coats, gloves, et cetera. And then after we’re done with the needs we ask them, ok, what would they want. What have they talked about? What do they want? And then as much as we can do it we try to honor whatever they want and surprise them.”
“They have a set amount that they’re supposed to adhere to, but I really believe that some of them secretly when they’re shopping they’ll reach into their own pocket or they’ll grab a little something extra and take care of it when we’re not looking.”
Donations to support the program are accepted year-round at area police stations. Checks made payable to FOP Tuscora Lodge # 4 with “Christmas with a Cop” on the memo line can also be mailed to P.O. Box, Dover, OH 44622.