Cordele Police Department to host annual “Shop With a Cop” on Friday

CORDELE, Ga. – The Cordele Police Department is gearing up for its annual “Shop With a Cop” event on Friday, December 19, a tradition that brings holiday joy to children selected from the local primary school.

Each year, 20 to 30 students are chosen based on their character, perseverance, or personal achievements. Those selected spend the day with Cordele police officers, beginning with a special escort through town, lights and sirens included, before heading to Walmart for a holiday shopping trip. Each child receives a set amount to spend on gifts for themselves or their families.

Officers say the goal is to build trust and positive relationships with local youth while giving children a safe, memorable holiday experience. What began years ago with officers handing out toys from the back of a pickup truck has grown into one of the department’s most cherished community events.

The program is funded entirely through donations from local businesses and community members, and organizers say support is still needed to make this year’s event possible.

Anyone interested in contributing to “Shop With a Cop“ can contact the Cordele Police Department at 229-276-2952.

Copyright 2025 South Georgia News. All rights reserved.