St. Vital Centre was abuzz with police activity last week, but it wasn’t due to theft or robbery.
Instead, it was part of the annual Shopping with Cops event, in partnership with the busy mall.
About 60 police officers partnered with local students and spent two hours on a shopping spree.
“The kids, who received a $200 St. Vital Centre gift card, were able to purchase everything they needed to get ready for the holidays, and – we suspect – a treat or two for themselves as well,” said the Winnipeg Police Service in a post on social media.
Each participant was teamed up with a Winnipeg police officer who volunteered their time to make the shopping experience memorable.
“I had so much fun with the cops,” said one participant. “I bought some gifts for my family. It was the best day of my life.”
The kids had the opportunity to not only shop but spend time riding motorized stuffed animals and playing in the arcade located in the mall’s movie theatre.
Once the students were finished shopping, everyone met in the food court for a pizza party lunch.
“Shopping With Cops is a fantastic event in partnership with St. Vital that provides us a unique opportunity to meet some wonderful young people and take them shopping for the holiday season,” said Constable Dirk Creighton.
Students who participate in the event are chosen based on their academic and sports achievements, positive influence on peers and volunteer efforts that help to make a difference in the community.