Marshall's Shop with a Cop program builds bonds, brightens kids' holidays

The annual “Shop with a Cop” event returned to Marshall for its fourth year on Saturday, bringing together local students, police officers, and community partners for a day filled with holiday cheer and meaningful connections.

Designed to foster trust and build positive relationships between law enforcement and youth, the event also provided opportunities for students to shop for Christmas gifts they might not otherwise afford.

The day began at Pietro’s, where students shared breakfast with officers in a warm, festive atmosphere.

The restaurant served its signature breakfast pizza, a creation of eggs, cheese, sausage and green peppers.

“This event is near and dear to me and my team,” said Joseph Philippa, owner of Pietros Pizzeria,“ It doesn’t matter how late we work the night before; this is one of the most important things we do to give back to the community that supports us.”

Following breakfast, the group embarked on a police-escorted journey to Walmart, with flashing lights and sirens making the outing feel like a holiday parade.

Each student, chosen based on financial need or prior interactions with law enforcement, was paired with an officer and received a $100 gift card to shop for presents.

“This program isn’t just about gifts — it’s about creating positive experiences and building trust,” said Blake Langley, principal of Price T. Young Fine Arts Academy and a program organizer, “It’s incredible to see officers and students bonding, sharing laughs, and working together to pick out gifts.”

Inside Walmart, officers helped students navigate the aisles, choosing gifts for family members or themselves.

“The kids love it, and the officers look forward to it every year,” Langley said, “This is a chance to show the community a different side of law enforcement, one focused on kindness and connection.”

After shopping, the festivities continued at Marshall High School’s Price T. Young Academy, where students enjoyed lunch catered by Pietros, watched Christmas movies and had their gifts wrapped by JROTC cadets.

“This event has grown each year, thanks to the dedication of our partners and the generosity of our community,” said Chip “The Fat Man” Arledge of 92.3 The Depot, which spearheads the program 

More than 40 sponsors and donors contributed to the program this year, ensuring its continued success.

“It really lightens your heart during the holiday season,” Langley said, “The smiles on the kids’ faces, the conversations with the officers — it’s all about spreading joy and creating positive memories.”

While the program currently serves 60 students from Marshall ISD and five from Jefferson, organizers hope to expand in future years.

“The more donations we receive, the more kids we can include,” Arledge said, “It’s all about making a difference in our community.”

Organizers are already looking forward to the program’s fifth year in 2025, determined to make it bigger and better while continuing to strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the community.