Vernon Middle School

The Harlingen Police Department brought smiles and Christmas cheer to 86 Harlingen CISD students during their 10th Annual Shop with a Cop event.

“Every year, this event warms our hearts, and Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without it,” said HCISD Interim Superintendent Veronica Kortan. “Thank you to our community and, in particular, our Harlingen PD for making this possible.”

The Shop with a Cop event kicked off at Walmart on December 12, where students and their law enforcement partners were greeted with festive cheer.

This year’s event included participation from Harlingen PD, DPS, Border Patrol, the Constable’s Office, and Emergency Management.

Students arrived by school bus and were paired with law enforcement officers as their shopping partners. Harlingen South cheerleaders and the school mascot welcomed students through a special door decorated with a festive red, white, and green balloon arch.

Once inside, the first stop was a photo with Blue Santa.

“My role is to make children happy, bring a smile to their face, and take a picture with them along with the officers assisting today,” said Blue Santa Carey Shamlian. “If I can bring a smile to somebody, I have done my job.”

After their photos, students grabbed baskets, and the shopping spree began. Most students headed straight for the toy aisles.

Among them was Sophia Martinez, a fifth grader from Stuart Place Elementary, wearing a reindeer headband and a jingle bell bracelet.

“I am shopping for toys and some things for my sister,” Sophia said. “I feel blessed. Thank you so much for making this happen.”

At the checkout line, Lamar Elementary fifth grader Joseph Peña shared his excitement about his purchases.

“I bought two LEGO sets, a G Wagon and a Skyliner,” Joseph said. “I also bought a water bottle, a basketball, and pods for the water bottle.”

Once the shopping was done, students dropped off their purchases with FedEx on-site. They delivered their purchases to their schools while students and their law enforcement partners headed to Chuck E. Cheese for lunch and games.

“All the funds we raise for this event come from community donations,” said Harlingen Police Chief Michael Kester. “We have amazing partners who gather thousands of dollars for this event. Not only do the kids get to buy toys, clothing, and other items, but we also provide their families with a Thanksgiving meal.”