Shop With a Cop Brings Christmas Cheer to Webster County Children

Published 5:04 pm Friday, November 6, 2026

By Joe Rios

Christmas shopping takes on a special meaning when a child gets to walk through a store, pick out a gift, and share the experience with a police officer.

That’s what the Marshfield Police Department hopes to do this December again through its annual Shop with a Cop program.

Police Chief Doug Fannin says the program has run for decades, giving law enforcement officers a chance to help children whose families may be struggling financially.

But there’s something else that makes the program special.

Fannin says it gives children a chance to see police officers in a different light.

Many of the youngsters have only encountered officers during difficult situations involving family members. Shop with a Cop gives them an opportunity to see the friendly, caring side of law enforcement.

And sometimes, those first nervous moments turn into smiles, laughter, and even hugs.

Fannin, who has worked in law enforcement for more than 30 years, says it’s one of the most rewarding programs officers participate in.

The Marshfield Police Department has expanded the program in recent years to reach children throughout Webster County.

This year, applications have come from Marshfield, Niangua, Seymour, Fordland, Rogersville and Elkland.

Fannin says the department has already received more than 100 applications, although it won’t be able to accommodate everyone.

Officers are reviewing applications to identify families with the greatest need.

The program isn’t limited to families receiving public assistance.

Fannin says some parents work hard and earn just enough to get by, but don’t qualify for assistance programs. Those families can also benefit from a little extra help during Christmas.

The department receives much of its funding through a Walmart grant, with additional community donations helping make the shopping experience possible.

Fannin says children generally receive more than $100 each to spend, though the amount depends on available funding and the number of participating children.

On shopping day, Walmart also provides breakfast for the youngsters.

The event has become a special tradition for the police department itself.

Fannin says getting every officer together can be difficult because of work schedules, but Shop with a Cop is one occasion when the entire department makes an effort to participate.

For some children, the experience is about more than receiving Christmas presents.

Fannin says a few are surprised when officers tell them they can choose what they want from the store.

He says those moments remind officers why the program matters.

This year’s shopping event is tentatively planned for either December 5 or December 12, depending on arrangements with Walmart. A final date has not been announced.

Residents interested in contributing can contact Amanda, the Walmart store manager, about donating through the store. The police department does not accept donations directly.

For Fannin, Shop with a Cop is about helping families, building trust, and making Christmas a little brighter for children across Webster County.

And for the officers who participate, seeing those children smile makes the effort worthwhile.