HARLINGEN — Officer Ray Delua and his young friend Kevin Fuentes moved through the aisles shopping for Christmas presents.
“It’s a chance for them to see us in a different light,” said the Harlingen police officer as Kevin, 10, looked wide-eyed at the choices filling the shelves of Target.
Kevin and Delua had met up Wednesday morning at Target for the Harlingen Police Department’s annual “Shop With A Cop” event in coordination with the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District.
Four students from each elementary school in the district — there are 18 of them — were selected by counselors who made the decision based on who would benefit most from the program.
Each student received a $125 gift card to spend on Christmas gifts while hanging with a police officer.
“We want to let them know that we are always here to help, that we’re the good guys, and build that relationship, so that they are not scared to come to us,” said Harlingen Police Officer Jesus Elizondo.
The relationship actually begins earlier in the year as officers build a rapport with local kids. The outreach includes ensuring the kids and their families have a Thanksgiving.
“This is probably one of my favorite events to do,” Elizondo said. “It’s great watching the kids smile. We allow them to purchase whatever they want. A lot of these kids that I’ve partnered up with in the past are very concerned about their siblings and parents.”
That sentiment was confirmed by the kids who quickly filled the aisles.
“This morning I have been thinking about getting something for my mom because it’s her birthday on Friday,” said Elijah Fernandez, 10, a fifth grader at Stuart Place Elementary.
“Also looking for something for my twin brothers and my older brother,” he added.
Abigail Martinez, 10, explored aisles of cosmetics, toys, clothes and books.
“I’m shopping for my mom,” she said.
She picked up something she thought was a blanket.
“Those are Disney pajama pants,” said Harlingen Police Sgt. Rocky Contreras.
“Oh, I’m putting it back,” Abigail said. She stopped briefly at the phones and said, “That’s a little bit over my budget.”
Harlingen Police Chief Michael Kester was having a great time shopping with his young friend Imelda Gonzalez, 10.
“This is a great event,” he said. “We do this every year. It helps us meet some of these kids, and it gives them a chance to see a police officer in a friendly light.”
Imelda was enjoying the experience, too.
“I feel happy excited,” she said. “Even without this, I would be happy because I still have a family.”
