18th Annual Shop With a Cop

Members of the Calgary Police Service (CPS) have teamed up with Marlborough Mall and shopping centre owner Primaris once again for the 18th annual Shop With a Cop event in an effort to build relationships with deserving youth.

During the event, CPS officers are paired with students from nine schools in District 4 for a day of bonding and holiday shopping. Each student will receive a $200 gift card to spend at the mall, donated by Marlborough Mall and the Calgary Police Youth Foundation, as well as a shopping bag with some holiday surprises provided by Marlborough Mall and retailers.

The Shop With a Cop program aims to foster positive relationships between the CPS and Calgary’s youth. In total, 27 students are selected by their schools to reward their volunteer work, academic excellence, sporting achievements or other sorts of community service.

“This is without a doubt one of our favourite holiday events. It provides our officers with an opportunity to build lasting relationships with some very deserving students who may have never had an interaction with a police officer,” says Cst. Munya Mwayi, District Four Community Resource Officer. “This initiative not only rewards the hard work and dedication of these young individuals but also allows our officers to connect with them on a personal level.”

“As we approach the holiday season, the safety and well-being of our children and youth is a top priority. The Calgary Police Youth Foundation is supporting 'Shop with a Cop' event, to help students to experience the joy of giving while building positive relationships between police officers and young people in our community,” says Susan Cron, Executive Director at the Calgary Police Youth Foundation. “A shopping experience is a wonderful opportunity to foster trust, and provide these students with a safe, supportive environment. We are appreciative of our donors who help us make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth and help ensure a safer, brighter future for everyone.”

“Shop with a Cop is a tradition at Marlborough Mall, and Primaris is proud to support this annual event as part of our national ‘Primaris Cares’ program,” says Sarah Cumming, Property Manager at Marlborough Mall. "We would like to thank the Calgary Police Service and the Calgary Police Youth Foundation for their ongoing support and partnership.” 

Organizers would also like to thank the Marlborough Mall A&W and Tim Hortons for providing snacks and lunch during the event.