Cops and kids go Christmas shopping in Henry County for annual event

Posted: Dec 23, 2019 / 01:28 PM EST / Updated: Dec 23, 2019 / 01:28 PM EST

Officer Chris Bell (center) stands in line with children participating in the annual Cops and Kids event, held on Dec. 14 at Walmart. (Photo Courtesy Harvest Youth Board)

MARTINSVILLE, Va. (WFXR) — Police officers and kids spent time together this holiday season during the Cops and Kids event earlier this month in Martinsville.

The program paired active and retired law enforcement members with a child for Christmas gift shopping at a nearby Walmart on Dec. 14.

Lt. Ben Peters of the Martinsville Police Department said the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has participated in this program for more than 15 years.

The Harvest Youth Board made this event possible with a $3,500 grant to the FOP, Patrick Henry Lodge No. 73.

“Strengthening the relationship between the youth and law enforcement is vital and getting to do so while also providing a great Christmas experience for local kids is an amazing opportunity,” said Jacob Tisdale, treasurer of the board.

This year 68 children from Henry County participated in the event.

“A few members of the board had mentioned that these kids often pick out presents for others before they even think of themselves,” said board member Madison Ross. “It touches me that even though these kids may be less fortunate than others, they remain selfless.”