Sartell Police Spread Christmas Cheer With ‘Shop With A Cop’ Program [AUDIO,PHOTOS]

SARTELL -- The Sartell Police Department helped spread holiday cheer tonight (Thursday) as they took less fortunate children from the area on a shopping spree as part of their "Shop with a Cop" program.

Officers took the children shopping at Walmart, where they were able to spend $50 on anything they wanted. Some found that perfect gift they have always wanted, others shopped for members of their family.

Sartell School Resource Officer Adam VandeVrede says the "Shop with a Cop" program has been going on for years, but Sartell has been involved with it for just the past three years.

Even officers from the Sauk Rapids and St. Cloud Police Departments were there to help spread good tidings.

The children who participate in the program were chosen by the school resource officer and range from elementary to high school age.

VandeVrede says Walmart and Bernick's have been big supporters to the program providing $1000 each for the children to shop with.

VandeVrede says he looks forward to the event every year and enjoys the bonds it brings to the children and the officers.

"Shop with a Cop" was held today (Thursday) from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Scroll down to see photos of yesterdays event.