Shop with a cop

Since 1998, the Greece Uniformed Patrolmen's Association has been proud to help brighten numerous kids holidays through our Shop-With-A-Cop program.

Initially started by Officer Joe Coppeta, this annual holiday event continuously gets bigger and better every year.   Each of the eleven Greece Central Elementary Schools select several underprivileged children to attend this event.  Children are selected by school counselors, psychologists, teachers and building administration who know which kids are the most in need.

These children then meet on the first Saturday of December at a retail store where they are greeted with breakfast before they cheer on the arrival of the big guy himself -- Santa Claus. The kids then get to enjoy spending time with uniformed police officers while they shop for toys, clothes and other items they want; up to their predetermined dollar amount.  After they complete their shopping trip, all participants are provided lunch before they leave.

All monies used for this event were raised through both the UPA’s annual golf tournament and yearly fundraising drive. In addition, all the people involved in this event volunteer their time so no taxpayer dollars are used. Even the host store assists by helping to provide the food and crafts for the kids.