2020 Heard County “Shop With A Cop” event goes virtual

Participating officers at HCES Wednesday during the 5th annual “Shop With A Cop” event. This year’s event was done virtually due to COVID-19. (Photo: Kim Tisdale)

(Franklin, GA) — Many holiday traditions are being sidelined due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but organizers of the Heard County’s 5th Annual “Shop With A Cop” event did their best to keep the tradition going.

Each December, area law enforcement officers typically take part in the event, accompanying local special needs kids via motorcade to the Carrollton Target to make sure they have an extra special and happy holiday season.

With the pandemic, organizers had to think outside the box — so this year, kids were able to meet up with officers this week for gift opening after doing some COVID-safe online shopping.

BraveLIFE teachers were given gift cards for each student this year. They had each child do their shopping online at Target, and all the gifts were delivered to the respective schools.

Teachers wrapped the gifts, and officers came to each school and the students will opened their gifts with the officers from several local agencies. Officers and staff also enjoyed lunch with the kids.

Officers also visited the homes of virtual students who are unable to attend in-person learning at this time.

Chick-Fil-A of Carrollton donated lunches for the event and Chick-Fil-A of Lagrange donated breakfast for the big day.

Participating agencies this year included The Franklin Police Department, Heard County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia State Patrol, and The Carroll County State Prison.

(See video below for more pictures from the event)

Tina Holcomb organized the first Heard County event in 2016 and it has grown in the years following. The 2016 ‘Shop with a Cop’ began with just 13 participants.

The annual event is made possible through generous donations from local businesses and individuals.