Lansing, MI Police Spark Joy at Shop With a Cop 2025

The Lansing Police Department celebrated another successful Shop With a Cop 2025, pairing officers with children for a festive spree.

by Admin

Dec 26, 2025

Lansing police department officers with Santa and kids.

The holiday spirit arrived early in Ingham County as local law enforcement officers traded their patrol duties for a morning of shopping and smiles. The annual event brought together families and the Lansing Police Department for a tradition that has become a highlight of the winter season. With a focus on connection rather than enforcement, the day was filled with the sounds of laughter and the bright flash of holiday lights.

Racing Through the Aisles for a Great Cause

During the Shop With a Cop 2025 event, approximately 100 children were paired with local officers for a special mission. Each child received a $100 donated gift card to pick out the perfect items for themselves and their families. One of the most exciting moments for the kids was the motorcade from a nearby school to the store, complete with sirens and lights. Lansing parent April Carter, whose son Deklan participated, noted that many people in the area need assistance right now. Deklan Kiplinger was paired with Officer Glenn Briggs and was thrilled to find a Sonic LEGO set he had been wishing for.

Officers Embracing the Public Servant Role

The Lansing Police Department officers involved in the program view these interactions as a vital part of their job. Officer Glenn Briggs, now in his fifth year of participation, explained that the goal is to have a positive interaction with the kids and the community they serve. He described the event as a different type of service, stating, "We’re serving the community. It’s not an enforcement role, it’s a public servant role, but it’s still a police role." This hands-on community service, Lansing, MI, effort allows officers to build lasting bonds with the youth in a relaxed and joyful setting.

A Lasting Impact on Ingham County Families

The success of the day was visible in the nearly 1,000 presents that volunteers helped wrap after the shopping spree concluded. For many participants, the event is more than just a shopping trip; it is a chance to feel supported by their local heroes. By the end of the morning, 95 children had successfully navigated the aisles with their officer partners, ensuring that their holiday season would be much brighter. The program continues to serve as a bridge between law enforcement and the neighborhoods of Lansing, Michigan.

Building Bonds Through Holiday Kindness

Small acts of generosity, like a shared shopping trip, do more than provide gifts; they build a foundation of trust that lasts all year long. Seeing the human side of policing through these proactive acts of kindness helps create a safer, more connected community for everyone.

For more such stories or more such drives in other cities, check out our stories page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How does Shop with a Cop work for local families?

These programs typically partner local law enforcement agencies with community organizations to identify children who would benefit from a positive holiday experience. Donated funds are used to provide gift cards, and each child is paired with an officer to shop for gifts. You can often find details on how to participate or donate on the Lansing Police Department website.

2. What are the primary goals of police community outreach programs?

Community outreach aims to build trust, humanize officers, and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the public. By engaging in non-enforcement activities, departments can create open lines of communication and show their commitment to the well-being of the residents they protect.

3. Where can I find Lansing police department news regarding community events?

The most reliable way to stay informed about local initiatives is to check official government portals or the Lansing police department Facebook page. These platforms provide real-time updates on safety workshops, neighborhood meetings, and seasonal charity events like holiday gift drives.

4. Are there Lansing police department jobs available for community-focused individuals?

Yes, many departments actively recruit individuals who are passionate about community engagement and public service. Information regarding Lansing police department careers and the current hiring process can be found on the city's official employment page or by contacting the department's recruitment office.

5. How can citizens support law enforcement holiday drives?

Members of the community can support these efforts through financial donations, volunteering their time to wrap gifts, or donating new, unwrapped toys. Many of these programs are funded entirely by local businesses and private citizens who want to give back to those in need.

6. Why do police departments use lights and sirens for charity motorcades?

Using emergency equipment during holiday events is a way to create a memorable and exciting experience for the children involved. It turns a standard trip to the store into a "hero's parade," helping the kids feel celebrated and special while building a positive association with police presence.