Donations needed for New Madrid Police Department's annual ‘Shop with a Cop’

NEW MADRID, Mo. - For the seventh year, the New Madrid Police Department is seeking the public’s help to make Christmas special for youngsters in the R-1 School District.

Donations are now being sought for the Department’s “Shop with a Cop” program. According to B.J. Phillips, chairman of the “Shop with a Cop” for the Department, officers hope to raise enough funds to provide 15 students with $250 Walmart gift cards.

Five students will be selected from Lilbourn Elementary School, five from New Madrid Elementary and five from Matthews Elementary to take part. The students will be chosen by a team at each school consisting of the school principal, counselor and school resource officer.

The children will be taken by school bus to Walmart where they will be paired with an officer for the day. Each child will be able to spend the money on whatever they choose and after shopping they will attend at a pizza party at the New Madrid Police Department.

“The goal is to provide each child with an unforgettable Christmas experience and promote a positive rapport with law enforcement,” Phillips said. “Any amount that you can donate will be greatly appreciated.”

Donations can be mailed to: City of New Madrid Police Department (Attention: Shop with a Cop), 342 U.S. Highway 61, New Madrid, MO, 63869 or left at the New Madrid Police Department. Donations need to be received by Dec. 8.

Phillips noted all donations will receive media attention. Those who which to remain anonymous should note it with their donation.