UMPD & Local Law Enforcement Help Raise Holiday Spirits at 2025 Shop With A Cop

Service to the community takes many forms within the Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS). That’s why the University of Michigan Police Department is proud to partner with the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office for the 2025 Shop With A Cop that kicked off on the evening of Tuesday, Dec 9. The purpose is to provide children and families with a fun holiday shopping event with local law enforcement officers.

For over two decades, this program has helped make the holiday season a special time for participating families. This week, around 110 children were able to shop with officers from around the county, and close to 120 more will have the opportunity later this month to shop with UMPD and other officers again.

"Shop with a cop builds trust between youth and the University of Michigan Police Department, creating positive early experiences with law enforcement,” said Officer Craig Harvey from UMPD. “It fosters mentorship, supports families in need, and strengthens community bonds through shared generosity, compassion, and meaningful one-on-one connections during the holiday season."

Tuesday’s event was held at Meijer in Scio Township, and 10 different police and first responder agencies from around the county are participating in the event this year.

Participating families will have one more chance to Shop With A Cop before Christmas. The goal for 2025 is to provide each child with a fun evening that they won’t forget, complete with gift cards to spend at local stores and restaurants, presents, new winter wear, and a visit with Santa.

Other participating groups included the University of Michigan Club Dance team, the Eastern Michigan Football team, and local volunteers. For more information about Shop With A Cop, please visit the Washtenaw County website.