For the 3rd year in a row the Parsons Police Department has sponsored a Shop-With-A-Cop event. The Duke Mason Band are Honorary Partners in this year's Shop-With-A-Cop program. This year's Christmas Concert with the Duke Mason Band could not be held because of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Duke Mason and the band continued their support this year as contributors to the fundraising efforts.

     Donations were received from St Vincent De Paul, the Parsons Community, Parsons Police Staff, and funds were applied for through the DV Reed Trust with City Commission approval.

     There is the additional partnership between Parsons School District 503 and the Parsons Police Department to find children in need of a positive experience with law enforcement, as well as those in need of financial assistance. Superintendent Lori Ray works with her leadership teams at the local schools to identify children in elementary, middle school and the high school to participate in the program each year. She teams up with Parsons Deputy Chief of Police Dennis Dodd to bring some additional holiday cheer to some very special children.

     Over $5,000 was raised this year. Over 25 children participated in this year's event that was held today.

     "This event is a great way each year to interact with youth from our community, and to bring a joyful holiday season to those who may need a little extra cheer," said Dodd.

     The children are paired up with a local 1st Responder at Walmart in Parsons and can spend their donated holiday money at the store.  Officers keep track of the spending and help the children with gift ideas. This year Parsons Police Officers were supplemented by other 1st Responders from the Parsons Fire Department, Labette EMS, Labette Sheriffs Office, and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP).

     Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks would like to thank the community and the donating agencies for their extreme generosity during a year marked by challenges, sickness, and unemployment. With the community's support, these children and their families will have much appreciated gifts under their tree. Parsons Police Staff and the other 1st Responders look forward to this annual opportunity where they receive their own gift of spirit by spending time with some great kids during a fun shopping experience that embodies the spirit of giving during the holiday season.

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