By Brian Bowman, Town of Knightdale
Knightdale Police Officers will make the holidays brighter for 10 local families this month during their annual “Shop with a Cop” initiative. Every year, the officers raise money to provide new gifts for low-income families, then take the children shopping at the Knightdale Target store. Many of the young students’ families have experienced difficult times, from broken relationships to critical illnesses.
“We know that there are local families that are less fortunate,” said Guthrie. “For our department, this time of year is about giving, not just receiving. This is one way we can help those who are down on their luck have a nice Christmas as well.”
The officers are glad to spend time with these families in a positive setting.
“It’s good for us to be able to show these families and the community that police officers are here to help and not like the people they may see on TV or movies.”
The department held its first Shop with a Cop event in 2014 after officers raised money for and shopped with eight local families. This year, they have raised enough to help 10 local families from four area elementary schools: Lockhart, Hodge, Knightdale and Forestville Road. For 2015, the officers have raised about $2,400.
All events to be held at the Knightdale Target, located at 1000 Shoppes at Midway Dr, Knightdale Blvd. The first Shop with a Cop took place December 9, 2015, with events planned daily through December 15, 2015.
This year’s largest sponsor is Lincoln Properties, which manages Knightdale’s Greystone Apartments community.
“Lincoln Properties donated $1,500 to this local effort,” said Police Lieutenant Justin Guthrie. “Without that donation, the program was in jeopardy of not happening this year. It’s nice to know that a community like Greystone is willing to step up to the plate and give back to the community they serve.”
The local Target store also donated $500.
“We appreciate Target hosting the event for the second year in a row,” said Guthrie.
For more information on Knightdale’s Shop with a Cop, or holiday-related town events, visit their website at www.knightdalenc.gov.
