The Omaha Police Officers Association Foundation (OPOAF) (opoaf.org) proudly hosted its annual Shop With a Cop event on Wednesday, Dec. 10, an evening that has become a cherished tradition for both officers and local families.

This year, 48 children from a local shelter were paired with uniformed Omaha police officers to shop for holiday toys, clothes and meaningful gifts. Thanks to generous donors and support from Target, each child was able to fill their cart with presents not only for themselves, but often for their parents and siblings, a gesture that reflects the true spirit of the season.

After shopping, the children boarded a chartered bus and were treated to a special police motorcade escort, complete with a SWAT vehicle, leading them to the OPOA Hall. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Santa and Mrs. Claus, who made a magical entrance in a horse-drawn carriage. Inside, the hall was decorated in festive red and green with balloons, music, and holiday cheer. The evening concluded with a pizza dinner and cookies.

OPOAF is able to host Shop With a Cop, along with other community focused initiatives, through the generosity of donors who believe in supporting Omaha families. The foundation’s mission is rooted in the belief that many people are only one difficult moment away from needing help, and that small acts of kindness can make a meaningful, life-changing difference. For more information or to support future events, visit opoaf.org.