Shop With A Cop is Spreading Holiday Cheer in Nemaha County

Since 2016, the Sheriff’s Office has hosted its annual Shop With A Cop program with a simple but powerful mission: to build positive relationships with local children and their families while giving those in need a special holiday experience.
“Our main goal has always been to strengthen community relations,” Moyer said. “Not just with the children we serve, but with their families as well. It gives us a chance to interact with kids in a more personal, positive way outside of a normal law-enforcement setting.”
To date, roughly 100 children from across Nemaha County have participated. Each year’s group is determined by available volunteers and community donations. Children must be county residents in first through fifth grade, and participants are selected with help from local partners familiar with families who could benefit most.
The day begins with a burst of excitement as each child is picked up by a deputy or State Patrol trooper for a ride in a patrol car. They gather at El Portal for lunch, where tacos, laughter and easy conversation help melt away the nerves.
“It’s such an important part of the day,” Moyer said. “By the time they finish lunch, the nerves are gone. They’ve made friends and created a bond with the officer they’re with.”
After lunch, a convoy of patrol vehicles heads to Walmart, where each child receives $250 to spend alongside their paired officer. Participants are required to buy clothing, but they also get to select items they want — and choose a gift for someone special in their life.
The celebration continues back at El Portal with snacks, games and gift wrapping. The Nemaha Methodist Church adds to the tradition by providing take-home turkey dinners for the families — a gesture that has become a beloved part of the experience.
Moyer credits the program’s success to strong community partnerships. The Eagles Club and Jeff Domino were crucial to the early years, and Rosa and the staff at El Portal have consistently supported the event with generous hospitality.
Even in 2020, the program didn’t pause. That year, deputies placed online orders for the children and delivered gifts directly to their homes.
“The biggest impact we see is the relationships that are built,” Moyer said. “Every year, without fail, we hear at least one child say, ‘This is the greatest day of my life.’ There are smiles everywhere — from the kids, from the officers, even from shoppers who find out what’s happening.”
Deputy Danny Johnson, helping wrap a remote-control truck, summed it up simply: “Today is a good day,” he said, as his new buddy nodded in agreement. 
As one of their most anticipated events of the year, Shop With A Cop continues to rely on donors and local fundraisers. Anyone interested in supporting the program or learning more is encouraged to contact the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office.