For the past 11 years, the Indiana Troopers Association (ITA) has helped to make the holidays a little brighter for deserving families across
The program began in 1997 as the first statewide Shop With A Cop Program working with elementary schools in our state. During that program, S/Trooper Pat Bartram of the Putnamville Post was one of the officers who came out to assist with the shopping event. Sadly, on
Over the past ten years the program has grown tremendously. In the early years of the program, each family was given $200 in Wal-Mart Gift Certificates to shop for their children. In more recent years, thanks to the generosity of our donors, the ITA has been able to provide $100 per child, with a family maximum of $400.
In 2007, we were able to assist over 128 families with a total cost of approximately $25,000. Family names are submitted by Indiana State Police District Commanders, Public Information Officers, and Chaplains, as well as by elementary schools who participate in the ITA’s various specialty programs during the year. Each application is reviewed and approved by the ITA.
The ITA seeks families who are having a tough time during this holiday season. Families who are experiencing serious medical situations and expenses, loss of jobs or homes, single parents struggling to make ends meet – families who just need a “helping hand” to allow their children to experience the joys of the holiday season.
Prior to the Christmas holidays, troopers from around the state made contact with the families who have been approved for the program and made arrangements to meet at area Wal-Mart locations to shop for new clothing and new toys. At least one-half of the gift card amounts must be spent on new clothing, while the remaining portion can be used for items of the children’s choice.
The ITA thanks the residents of our great state for their support all year that make this program possible. We are also grateful for our troopers who take personal time from their own holiday season to lend a helping hand to those in need in their area.
2006 Christmas For Kids 2005 Christmas For Kids
2003 Christmas For Kids
2002 Christmas For Kids
2001 Christmas For Kids