Adams County Foundation Funds Shop With a Cop Holiday Program

The Adams County Community Foundation announced on November 27, 2025 that it has funded this year s Shop With a Cop program, continuing a local tradition that began in 2015. The annual initiative pairs children from low income households with law enforcement officers, fire and EMS personnel, volunteers, and community supporters so the children can select toys, clothing, and holiday essentials in a safe and celebratory setting.

“The Adams County Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community,” said Linda Stepp, ACCF president. The foundation called the grant its fourth contribution under the Neighbors Helping Neighbors holiday initiative. “This is the fourth grant in our ‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors’ holiday initiative,” said Paul Worley, ACCF vice president. The foundation did not disclose the dollar amount in its announcement.

Since its inception in 2015 the program has grown to serve dozens of children each year and this year brought together multiple county agencies to make the event possible. Participating organizations included the Adams County Sheriff s Office, police departments in West Union, Manchester, Winchester, Seaman, and Peebles, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Local businesses, schools, and community members supplemented the foundation grant with donations and volunteer time to ensure participating children left with gifts and holiday necessities.

The program s short term impact is tangible for families that face tight budgets during the holiday period. By directing donated funds into purchases at local retailers the event also circulates charitable dollars within the county s economy while relieving household spending pressure for the recipients. Beyond the immediate material benefits the program emphasizes community engagement and volunteerism, providing repeated opportunities over a decade for positive interactions between youth and public safety officials, which can contribute to social trust in the long run.

For Adams County policymakers and civic leaders the continued support of Shop With a Cop highlights how private philanthropy and volunteer networks can supplement public services and address seasonal needs. With rising inflation and constrained public budgets nationally in recent years, locally driven efforts like this one remain a key channel for supporting vulnerable families and sustaining community cohesion.