The 2024 Holiday Shop With a Cop had a very excited group of children and emergency responders come together again for a great time of giving. On December 9, 11 and 12, the local police and fire departments, along with the Marshall County Sheriff departments, brought local children on their annual Shop With a Cop.
After filling their bellies at La Grande restaurant, they all loaded up for the trip to Walmart to pick out their gifts. The lights flashed and the sirens blew, making a Christmas celebration never to be forgotten.
Because of a supportive community, BancFirst, and many individuals who donated not only their money but their time, the children had a bountiful Christmas. The kids had buggies with nerf guns, RC cars, scooters, Legos, dolls, hot wheels and other goodies.
The program has continued to grow enabling the and the men and women of Madill and Marshall County’s first responders to reach more children and show how much the happiness of these children means to them.
The event was started many years ago by now Police Chief Donny Raley and has inspired all of the community to have a heartfelt association with law enforcement. As the years continue, this program will grow and continue to bless children.
Madill Fire Chief, Mike Idleman said everyone involved enjoys this event.
“Doing this [fire truck ride] for the kids is amazing, glad they get to have a Christmas,' Idleman said. “I’m not sure who enjoys it more, the kids or us. I love to see the fun they have and the smiles on their faces” Bailey Jocop, an employee at La Grande, said they look forward to this each year.
“It makes my day seeing the happy kids, very heartwarming. We get excited doing the preparations.”
BancFirst representative Shenia Jocop said she is glad to be a part of the event.
“It makes me feel joyful and thankful that BancFirst has sponsored the event for two years and we look forward to the event each year.”
Raley said the main goal of the event is to help the kids have a great Christmas.
“Its all about these kids,” Raley said. “It’s a special event we all enjoy”