'Shop-with-a-Cop' application period opens Nov. 1

OSBURN — In a county with a fairly high child-poverty rate, it’s a regrettable fact that some Silver Valley children just don’t have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Christmas experience. When families are on a budget, filling the area under the Christmas tree simply can’t be done sometimes.

For the fourth year in a row though, the Osburn Police Department and other participating agencies are hoping to fix that for some by hosting its annual Shop-with-a-Cop program on Dec. 14-15.

The completely donation-fueled event has Silver Valley children (who meet certain criteria) teaming up with law enforcement officials from OPD, the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office, Kellogg Police Department and other participating agencies for a day of holiday shopping.

This year, participating youngsters will meet in Osburn, then get the opportunity to ride in an emergency vehicle to the Walmart in Smelterville. It is there where they are given an allowance (normally around $100) to spend on presents they want for themselves and/or loved ones. This mini shopping spree is supervised by a law enforcement official who is assigned to generally 1-2 kids at a time.

When the shopping has ended, the children will come back to Osburn to eat lunch, wrap their gifts and socialize with the law enforcement personnel before going home. Santa may also be on hand once again to chat with kids and maybe even accept some letters with the help of the U.S. Postal Service.

A professional photographer will be available throughout both days to capture all the fun as well.

The building in Osburn that will host these after-shopping festivities is still undecided, but options include Silver Hills Elementary or the new Shoshone County Fire District No. 1 building.

OPD Chief Darell Braaten explains that in addition to brightening someone’s Christmas, the event is also designed to help foster a positive rapport between local children and police.

“The goal is to build a relationship, a bonding, between our youth and law enforcement,” he said. “It allows them an opportunity to interact with us in an comfortable and safe environment.”

Braaten will be accepting applications for children to participate from Nov. 1-30.

In order to qualify, the child must be within the age group of kindergarten through sixth grade, have a social or economic need and live within Shoshone County.

OPD is also still accepting donations to fund the program right up until the shopping day on Dec. 14. The hope is to raise upward of $12,000, which was the budget last year. OPD is currently sitting at roughly $6,000 raised.

For any questions regarding the Shop-with-a Cop program, or to apply or donate, stop by the Osburn Police Department or call 208-753-9001.