URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) – Over two special nights this week, more than 50 local children participated in the Urbana Police Department’s annual Shop with a Cop event, an initiative designed to foster connection, trust, and community engagement during the holiday season.

The program went beyond gifts, offering children and their families the opportunity to see policing in a positive light. One child shared that they hadn’t realized police officers could be so kind, while a parent said the event completely changed their perception of law enforcement.

The event was made possible thanks to numerous community partners, including the United States National Guard, Blain’s Farm & Fleet Urbana, Costco Champaign, The Main Scoop Ice Cream Shop, First Student Inc., and countless volunteers. Special recognition went to Lisa Curtiss for coordinating the event and to new PSR Fred Hatchet, who went out of his way to ensure a child received a desired gift that had sold out in-store.

Through the collective effort, the program not only brightened the holidays for families but also strengthened the bonds between officers and the community. The Urbana Police Department emphasized that moments like these matter, building trust and leaving lasting positive impressions.