The Cabot Police Department held its fifth annual COPS Toy Patrol on Thursday at the Cabot Walmart Supercenter.
Fifty children from pre-K to fourth grade in the Cabot School District were treated to a night of Christmas shopping that they may not otherwise have had. They were paired with a Cabot police officer and had around $100 to spend for themselves and their families. Students were nominated through teachers and staff members.
Money for the event was raised through private donations, the sale of a middle school student art contest calendar and a charity softball game.
Mountain Springs Elementary third-grader Alona Cherry thought it was cool to be shopping with an officer.
“They protect us, and it is nice. It is an honor to be here today,” Cherry said.
Westside Elementary third-grader Armanie Hill was happy for the opportunity to be shopping for herself with police.
“You get to meet the cops. We can get clothes,” Hill said.
April and Steven Pruitt had two children shopping with officers.
“It means a lot. I work all the time, but the money goes to bills. We wouldn’t have Christmas. We weren’t able to get anything.” April Pruitt said.
Steven Pruitt said, “It is a blessing. It is the magic of Christmas, the spirit of giving to someone—a Christmas miracle.”
Alexis Wilson, a parent said, “It means a lot for me and my children for officers to help out this year. I feel thankful and grateful.”
Capt. Brent Lucas said, “It is a lot of fun. It is a blast. You get to spend time with kids and see the excitement and enjoyment of Christmas.”
Police chaplain Tina Frost said, “I would like to thank the community and the businesses that helped. Without them it wouldn’t have been possible. I would also like to thank the police officers and the volunteers who wrapped the presents and helped the 50 kids have a merry Christmas.”
