Cockeysville, Maryland, December 14, 2025
Baltimore County police officers and local children came together for the 23rd annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event in Cockeysville. This cherished tradition enables children to shop for holiday gifts alongside officers, fostering community bonds and positive relationships. Each child received $100 to spend, primarily purchasing gifts for their families. After shopping, participants enjoyed a breakfast provided by local businesses, enhancing the festive spirit and reinforcing local connections.
Baltimore County, Maryland
Police Officers and Children Partner in 23rd Annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ Event
Baltimore County, Maryland – On Saturday, December 13, 2025, more than 100 Baltimore County police officers and 102 children from the county’s 10 precincts took part in the 23rd annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event at the Walmart in Cockeysville. This longstanding tradition aims to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community by providing children with the opportunity to shop for holiday gifts alongside police officers.
Event Overview
Each child was paired with an officer and received $100, generously provided by the Optimist Clubs of Baltimore County, to spend as they chose. The children primarily purchased presents for their family members, showcasing the spirit of giving during the holiday season. After shopping, participants enjoyed a breakfast provided by Outback Steakhouse at the Hunt Valley Towne Centre, further strengthening community bonds.
Program Origins
The ‘Shop with a Cop’ program was initiated 23 years ago by retired Baltimore County officer Michael Schmitz Sr., who facilitated its approval and raised $2,500 to take 25 underprivileged children to Walmart for holiday shopping. The following year, the Optimist Club partnered with Baltimore County, donating $10,000 to expand the program to 100 children. Over the years, the event has grown significantly, with 102 children participating this year, highlighting its enduring success and positive impact on the community.
Building Community Trust
Beyond providing holiday gifts, the event serves as a platform for children to interact with local law enforcement in a positive setting, helping to build trust and understanding between the community and police officers. The program’s success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the Baltimore County Police Department, the Optimist Clubs, and various community volunteers who contribute to its organization and execution each year.
Future Plans
The ‘Shop with a Cop’ event continues to be a cherished tradition in Baltimore County, exemplifying the community’s commitment to supporting its youth and fostering strong relationships with law enforcement. Plans are already underway for next year’s event, with organizers aiming to expand participation and further enhance the experience for all involved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the ‘Shop with a Cop’ event?
The ‘Shop with a Cop’ event is an annual program where children are paired with police officers to shop for holiday gifts. Each child receives $100 to spend as they choose, primarily purchasing presents for their family members.
How long has the ‘Shop with a Cop’ program been running?
The program has been a tradition in Baltimore County for 23 years, starting with 25 children and expanding to 102 children this year.
Who funds the ‘Shop with a Cop’ event?
The event is funded by the Optimist Clubs of Baltimore County, which provide the $100 allocated to each child for shopping. Additional support comes from community volunteers and organizations that assist with organizing and executing the event.
What is the purpose of the ‘Shop with a Cop’ program?
The program aims to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community by providing children with the opportunity to interact with police officers in a positive setting, building trust and understanding.
How can I get involved in future ‘Shop with a Cop’ events?
Community members interested in participating or supporting future events can contact the Baltimore County Police Department or the Optimist Clubs of Baltimore County for information on volunteer opportunities and donation options.
Key Features of the ‘Shop with a Cop’ Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Participants | Over 100 police officers and 102 children from Baltimore County’s 10 precincts |
| Location | Walmart in Cockeysville, Maryland |
| Funding | $100 allocated to each child, provided by the Optimist Clubs of Baltimore County |
| Purpose | To foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community by allowing children to shop for holiday gifts alongside police officers |
| Additional Activities | Breakfast provided by Outback Steakhouse at the Hunt Valley Towne Centre |
| Program History | Initiated 23 years ago by retired officer Michael Schmitz Sr., expanding from 25 children to 102 children this year |
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