Middle School Students Shop with Officers, Families Receive Holiday Gifts

On December 16 middle school students from across Buncombe County Schools gathered for the annual Shop with a Cop event, a collaboration between the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office and Walmart. Each student shopped for gifts for themselves and their families, enjoyed lunch, and attended entertainment including a magic show. Walmart staff provided gift wrapping stations so presents could be delivered wrapped to homes the same day.

Organizers said the event was designed to create a festive and welcoming environment while giving officers an opportunity to connect with young people outside of crisis situations. BCSO Sgt. Will Fisher described the intent in simple terms. "We interact with kids every day, and this is part of breaking down barriers in the community," he said. "It helps kids realize there’s more to an officer than just someone who shows up when something goes wrong."

Sheriff Quentin Miller thanked the school resource officers who coordinated logistics and ensured students moved safely between stores and schools. He highlighted how many students prioritized family when selecting presents. "It was humbling to see students buying gifts for their families before choosing anything for themselves," he said. "That says a lot about who these kids are."

All gifts were wrapped and returned with students to their schools on the same day, with SROs assisting to make sure packages reached families. For local residents the event underscores two immediate outcomes. First, it provides tangible holiday support for families during a time of increased need. Second, it functions as a relationship building exercise between young people and law enforcement that can influence perceptions of public safety and school policing over time.

From a policy perspective Shop with a Cop raises questions about how school resource officer programs are resourced and evaluated. Tracking participation, family needs met, and long term effects on student perceptions would help school and county leaders assess the event’s role within broader community policing and student support strategies. As Buncombe County prepares for future community events, residents and officials will face decisions about balancing direct aid with measures that demonstrate transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes.