This year, the Kitsap County Corrections Officers completed another Shop With A Cop. More than 110 children from Central Kitsap and other areas were met by well over 150 uniformed law enforcement officers and military personnel at the Poulsbo Walmart on Saturday afternoon.

I have helped at this event for over a decade and I think the turnout of volunteers was the biggest I have seen, especially from the military. The U.S. Navy’s contribution was fantastic — more than 60 people, plus Coast Guard and Marines. Law enforcement was well represented by officers from many jurisdictions. I will not try to name each organization as I would probably miss one, but I want to thank all of them for sharing their Saturday with the children.

Poulsbo Walmart volunteers and many other volunteers did a great job in helping set up, wrap, entertain, feed and keep the Christmas spirit alive for those children and their families. Thank you to all who helped, and all of our law enforcement officers and military who acted as escorts for the children.

Please check the Kitsap Shop With a Cop Facebook page, as they have pictures and information on supporting this event. You will not see TV news coverage or articles and pictures in many of the local newspapers regarding this event. It has gone on for over a decade because of the dedication and support of the Kitsap County Corrections Officers and many other law enforcement officers in our area.

Roger Gay

South Kitsap