Local police officers swap badges for shopping carts at annual Shop with a Cop event

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — The 37th annual Upper Ohio Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 97 Shop with a Cop took place Tuesday at the Steubenville Walmart.

Ten local law enforcement agencies across Jefferson and Harrison counties swapped their badges for shopping carts to build relationships with the area youth.

Sixty-five children attended, and each had a budget of $150. All money was donated by the community.

“It is great to give back to the community and the kids that are in need,” Lodge President Shawn Gegick said. “Hopefully, it is going to bridge some of that gap. Bringing the kids to the police to see that we are good guys. We aren’t out there just to arrest everybody, and we are there to help them.”

In addition to the toys and clothes, families had the chance to pick out a ham or turkey for their Christmas dinner.