Before the winter sun could break through Brentwood’s morning fog, flashing lights and smiling faces filled the parking lot at one of Brentwood’s favorite local breakfast spots. It was time for the 5th annual Brentwood Police Activities League (PAL) Shop With A Cop event. The morning was full of holiday spirit, laughter, and giving.
A Morning of Giving Back
Founded in 1998, the Brentwood Police Activities League works year-round to create positive connections between youth, police officers, and the Brentwood community. One of PAL’s most cherished programs is Shop With A Cop, held each December thanks to the partnership of local schools, businesses, volunteers, and police officers.
The day begins at Brentwood Café in historic downtown, where kids and officers gather for a warm breakfast provided by owner Paul Boulos. After breakfast and a surprise visit from Santa, the children load into Brentwood police cars, sirens on and lights flashing, for a special police escort to Target at Slatten Ranch.
Shopping With Heart
Each child is paired with a police officer and Target employee for the shopping spree. With $250 to spend, the kids thoughtfully select gifts for themselves and loved ones. Many pick out clothing, shoes, school supplies, and essentials for their families. Some use the opportunity to give back to siblings, parents, and even teachers, showing just how much heart these young shoppers carry with them.
A True Community Effort
Organized by Officer Michael Rucker, the event comes together with the help of teachers, principals, counselors, school resource officers, local businesses, and many volunteers. Planning for the event starts months in advance. PAL works closely with school districts to identify children who would benefit most from a little extra holiday joy.
Why It Matters
For the officers, volunteers, and businesses involved, Shop With A Cop is more than just a shopping trip. It’s a chance to connect with local youth, build trust, and create lifelong positive memories. Many officers share that the event allows kids to see them not just as law enforcement but as neighbors who care deeply for their community. For the children, it’s a reminder that they are seen, supported, and valued.
Who Benefits From Shop With A Cop?
The kids who participate come from local schools and have often faced challenges far beyond their years. This event offers them a chance to experience something special—a morning where the focus is entirely on them and their families, surrounded by people who care. The event also touches everyone involved, from police officers and Target employees to volunteers and school staff, all seeing first-hand the difference a small act of kindness can make.
How You Can Help
The funding for Shop With A Cop comes entirely from community donations and the hard work of Brentwood PAL members. If you’d like to contribute or get involved, donations can be dropped off at 9100 Brentwood Blvd. Checks may be made payable to Brentwood PAL. You can also reach out directly to Officer King at [email protected] to learn more.
Wrapping Up A Special Day
At the end of the morning, kids gather with their officers to wrap their carefully chosen gifts. Each ribbon tied is a reminder of the generosity and joy shared throughout the day. Shop With A Cop has become a holiday tradition that highlights the power of community, the heart of Brentwood, and the simple but lasting impact of giving back.
This is just one of many ways you can make a difference as you explore our local backroads.
