Socks are always a practical choice for a Christmas gift. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel L Maxwell

Spirit of giving

‘It’s a great partnership’: Shop with a Cop boosts Christmas spirit

Dec 16, 2025 | 4:46 PM

An annual holiday tradition n Prince Albert that promotes the spirit of giving and partners municipal police officers with a young child has celebrated another successful year.

The 17th annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event took place on Tuesday at the Canadian Tire store. Thanks to sponsors, each child receives a $150 budget that they can use for the people on their Christmas list and pets.

Sgt. Derek Simonson noted the day is just as important for the officers as it is for the children.

“We don’t always get that opportunity to have that positive connection so when we do it definitely strengthens those relationships with our youth and with those families and our community,” he said.

Check out time. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

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The day started with the 20 students being picked up by charter bus from their schools – half from the public division and the other half from the Catholic division.

They were then taken to McDonald’s for some breakfast before heading to Canadian Tire to do their shopping. Store Office Manager Gabriele Wickens said they are proud to host the event.

“It’s a great partnership,” she said, adding there are excellent long term benefits for the children.

“Not only to receive gifts but also to be able to do their own shopping and make choices for their families that has a lot more meaning.”

While the event is facilitated by the police and hosted by Canadian Tire, other event sponsors include the Optimist Club and Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines.

Heading home after a successful shopping trip. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

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