The Jersey City Police Department held its fourth annual “Shop with a Cop” holiday event Wednesday.
Children were paired with police officers who then shopped for toys and other items inside the local Target.
The officers who participated in the event say that the goal was to develop a trusting relationship between police and the community.
“It’s a rewarding experience for everybody…we pick kids all throughout the city to participate in this event,” says Capt. Nicholas Scerbo.
Police officials coordinated with the East District public schools to determine which students would most benefit from the program.
Each shopper received a $100 Target gift card. The event is funded through donations from local businesses.