The Fraternal Order of Police is to host its annual Shop with a Cop Dec. 9 at Walmart.
FOP chair member and Seneca County Sheriff's Deputy Chris Potter said the event kicks off at 1 p.m. and law enforcement officers from all over Seneca County will be participating.
This year will be Potter's third year taking part in the charity event.
"It's a good time. I love doing it," he said.
Potter said the event not only provides Christmas gifts to children in need, it also shows children the softer side of law enforcement officers.
"It's our time to have a positive impact on children. It shows them we're just not out running around and arresting people," Potter said.
Potter said children shop with law enforcement officers in two, one-hour slots, and the number of children helped is based solely on the donations the organization receives. Last year, about 30 children from Seneca County whose families applied were able to shop with a cop.
"If we get a large donation to the FOP, the more we can do," he said.
Potter said a budget for each child also is based on the organization's total donation amount, but it's typically between $100 and $150. He said when the shopping spree begins, essentials such as coats, socks and scarves are always first on the list.
"It's unfortunate we can't help every family," he said. "These are families in need during the Christmas season."
Candie Cunningham, FOP secretary, said she expects between 12 and 15 law enforcement officers to take part in this year's Shop with a Cop. She said donations for the event still are being accepted.
Checks can be made payable to Lodge 128 and either dropped off at the Tiffin Police Department or mailed to P.O. box 285, Tiffin OH 44883.
