The Perry Police Department recently completed their annual tradition of spreading Christmas joy to area youth.

Police Chief Eric Vaughn says this year’s Shop with a Cop included 14 children that were nominated either by the public or the Perry School District. Earlier this month, Vaughn says they had breakfast with the kids that was provided by Kwik Star, before heading out to local businesses for each child to spend $200 buying gifts for each person in their household, as well as themself. Vaugh points out where the funds to do Shop with a Cop comes from.

“All that money comes locally from donations from individuals and from businesses here in town. And then we go back and we spend all that money back here in our community.”

Vaughn says everyone then heads back to the Perry Elementary School where they wrap the gifts and enjoy free pizza. He shares his thoughts about what he likes the most about this program.

“We just had some great kids. They’re just really appreciative of the experience, we just have a good interaction with them, it’s nice to have that. Sometimes we’re not dealing with everybody on their best of days and so we get to meet these kids, just have a good experience, from breakfast, to pizza, to doing a little shopping, and wrapping presents and help them provide a little bit for their families too.”   

He adds the Perry Fire Department, Dallas County Dispatchers and other volunteers helped out this year. To make a donation, checks can be made payable to the Perry Peace Officers Association and dropped off at the Perry Police Department.