St. Cloud Shop With A Cop Brings Holiday Hope to Kids

The holidays are right around the corner, and St. Cloud businesses are teaming up to make Christmas a little brighter for local kids and their families who could use some extra help this year.

The St. Cloud 'Shop with a Cop' program is back, and you are invited!

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 18TH

Everyone is invited to stop by Pantown Brewing Company for a special Beeranthropy event on Wednesday, November 18th, from 3 to 10 p.m. The goal? To raise money for the St. Cloud Police Department's 'Shop With A Cop' program.

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HOW DOES THE PROGRAM WORK?

More than 500 District 742 students are experiencing homelessness, and over 70% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. That's a lot of hungry kids, and numbers that shock most people who are just reading those numbers.

The St.Cloud Shop With A Cop Fundraiser gives children and families an opportunity to experience something special during the holidays. Children are matched with local police officers for a shopping experience that provides not only gifts, but also a chance to build positive relationships with the officers who serve their community.

ENJOY TASTY FOOD FROM JULE'S BISTRO

Donella Westfal, Owner of Jule's Bistro, who will be taking part in the event once again this year, providing chili and doughnuts, said she has had the opportunity to see the Shop with a Cop program in action, and said that there is nothing better than seeing the excitement on a child's face when they get to shop for a gift for their family. 'A simple gift of kitchen towels for their parents, or a warm blanket for a sibling. When they find out they get to buy themselves a gift too, it will make you tear up. They are so thankful for the things that many of us take for granted.'

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TOGETHER...WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The community has already shown just how much of a difference it can make. In 2023, with a budget of $5,200, the program matched 39 children. Then, in 2024 and 2025, generous sponsors and community support helped raise nearly $15,000, allowing the St. Cloud Police Department to serve more than 80 families and over 200 children.

By spreading the word to your family and friends, we can make this event even bigger this year.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Pantown Brewing Company will donate 25% of all sales and 100% of tips from the evening. Your job is to just come out and bring your friends and enjoy the event.

Jules' Bistro will be serving three varieties of homemade chili for you to enjoy, as well as donuts! ( You can't have a cop event without serving donuts!)
All the proceeds will be going directly to the cause.

COME FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT

St. Cloud's own piano man, Ted Manderfeld, will be providing live music (along with his signature questionable humor), from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

You don't have to do anything complicated to make a difference. Just stop by, enjoy some locally made beer, listen to some great music, grab a bowl of chili and a doughnut or two (or three), and know that you're helping put smiles on the faces of local children this Christmas.

It's a great example of what can happen when local businesses and neighbors come together for a good cause.