"Shop with a Cop" Assisting Children with Back-to-School Supplies

The Cedar Rapids Police Protective Association (CRPPA) will host its annual “Shop with a Cop” program to assist children with back-to-school supplies.  This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, August 4th from 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Cedar Rapids North Super Target, 1030 Blairs Ferry Road NE.  

Partnering with Target, the CRPPA will be providing 95 local children with school supplies, back packs, shoes and new clothing to help them get the school year off to a positive start.  The CRPPA worked with several organizations to select the children in need who will receive the school supplies as part of this event.  

The “Shop with a Cop” program involves police officers who desire to reach out to their community and assist families who may be struggling financially for various reasons.  A police officer is partnered with each school-aged child and the officer helps the child shop for needed school supplies.  All of the costs are covered by the Cedar Rapids Police Protective Association, which is funded by police officers and other generous donations from the community.    

Police Sergeant Dan Jabens, one of the coordinators of the “Shop with a Cop” program, says, “Officers look forward to the opportunity to help children in our community.  We know that children having adequate supplies is an important part of a successful start to the school year.  And, we know that families are quite appreciative of the assistance. “ 

Members of the media are encouraged to stop by the Cedar Rapids North Super Target between 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 4th to learn more about this community program.