Riverbank Police Services (RPS) hosted a fundraiser for the annual Shop with a Cop program last week. The event was held at the Texas Roadhouse in Modesto where approximately 220 meals were sold and picked up in a drive through fashion. The program will receive half of the proceeds collected.
“The Texas Roadhouse offers a great fundraising program where they donate half of funds from ticket sales back to the program,” noted RPS Chief Ed Ridenour. “They also offer volunteers that can help with us organize the Shop with a Cop Program. We hope to expand fund raising opportunities to other local businesses next year. We are always looking for those willing to partner with.”
The Shop with a Cop is held in December that assists families in need to obtain essential clothing for their children. For over 10 years RPS has continued the tradition of taking Riverbank families on a shopping spree and then hosting a celebration with food and other surprises. Children of the selected families are partnered with a Deputy that leads them through the shopping spree. They have a specific dollar amount and purchase necessities like jackets, coats, jeans, sweaters, and shoes. This year the event is slated for mid to late December.
Ridenour said, in years past several local businesses within Riverbank have donated to the program including Kohl’s, Savemart, Pizza Plus, Target, Mountain Mikes, Esperanza’s, Home Depot, Starbucks, and Roundtable.
The meals at the fundraiser last week had BBQ ribs, pulled pork, corn and bread for the affordable price of $17. Tickets were sold in late July and the meals were picked up on Oct. 5.
Community Services Officer Harigot was one of the main organizers of the event and there were several volunteers that Ridenour said were from within the department. The parking lot at the Texas Roadhouse was abuzz with activity as the Chief, Harigot, and others distributed the meals.
Donations are still being accepted for the Shop with a Cop program. For more information or to make a donation call Harigot at RPS at 209-869-7162.
“This is a great program to help those children who are in need of essential clothing,” stated Ridenour.
