This past weekend the Swatara Township Police Department, along with several other law enforcement agencies throughout Dauphin County to include the PA State Police and the FBI, teamed up with the Harrisburg Area Police Athletic League for their annual Shop with a Cop event.  Over 90 children participated in this event, which pairs local youth with law enforcement officers for a day of shopping for gifts for members of their family.  Each child received a $100 gift card, courtesy of a $24,000 donation made by Wal-Mart!  Children were provided some one on one time with their assigned officer who helped them select gifts for their family members.  More importantly, this time allowed the officers and the children to build positive relationships with one another, which helps instill trust.  After shopping was completed, children were able to enjoy some cookies and hot chocolate while they waited for their parents.  The children were also given a goodie bag and a roll of wrapping paper to take home with them.  This was a wonderful way to end the year for all of law enforcement who serve their communities throughout the Harrisburg area.  We would like to thank all of the surrounding agencies for their participation in this event along with our major sponsor Wal-Mart, and their associates for assisting with hosting this event.  Another thank you goes out to Members 1st Federal Credit Union who provided a monetary donation and volunteers to assist with parent pick up.  Our final thank you goes out to the Swatara Township employees and volunteers, to include the fire service and local residents, who gave up their time to support this event and our department!  From all of us at the Swatara Township Police Department, Merry Christmas to all as we wish you a safe and happy holiday season!