HCISD students from across the school district participated in the 5th annual “Shop with a Cop” event held at Target in Harlingen.
The 85 students received $100 to purchase anything they wanted. The event was made possible by HCISD’s community partners who raised and donated money in support of our children.
“The kids get to buy whatever they want,” said Harlingen Police Department Chief Michael Kester “All the funds we raise for this event come from members of the community. It gives a chance to interact with the kids, and this is something they’ll remember for years to come.
The holiday event proved to be a great morning for our Harlingen CISD students once again.
“You partner with a cop and you go shop around. They’re really nice. You can buy clothes, toys, and other stuff too,” the student who had the opportunity to shop alongside Chief Kester said.
While the students bought items for themselves, many of them also thought of others during this holiday season.
“My (siblings are) going to be really surprised because my brother loves football, but he doesn’t get to play anymore because he lost his football,” said Alexa Alvarez, a 5th grade student who loaded up her shopping cart with items for her family members. “Shop with a Cop is actually great, it’s fun, it’s exciting, and it was a huge surprise!”
Meanwhile, down another aisle in Target, Joann Muniz picked up a pair of black shoes from the men’s department. Muniz plans on gifting them to her dad.
“I really wanted to just to get him something,” Muniz said as a police officer helped her pick out the pair of shoes.
Over in the toys section, Julia Belmonte picked out items for herself and her sister.
“She’s like my best friend,” Belmonte said after making a lighthearted joke about her sibling who is a few years younger. “I’m getting her toys because she’s nice, and I’m also going to share what I’m buying.”
The student’s giving hearts mirrored that of the community.
Law enforcement officers from across the city and county, including from the Texas Department of Public Safety, lead the children through the aisle. Many of them chipped in out of their own pocket to pay for the student’s items.
“I am super proud to see Harlingen CISD students’ giving spirit shine during this annual event,” said Harlingen CISD Superintendent Dr. Art Cavazos. “I especially want to thank our community partners for their continuous support of HCISD students.”
