OSBURN — The Osburn Police Department will hold its annual Shop-With-A-Cop program next month, giving underprivileged children in Shoshone County a chance to enjoy a brighter Christmas season. 

The program pairs local law enforcement officers with children in kindergarten through sixth grade, providing each child with about $100 to shop for gifts for their families and themselves at the local Walmart. The event is funded entirely through donations. 

“The purpose of this event is to foster positive relationships between youth and officers,” Police Chief Jason Woody said. “It’s about giving these kids a special experience while showing them that law enforcement is here to support them.” 

After shopping, participants will share lunch with officers, wrap their gifts, and spend time getting to know law enforcement personnel before returning home. 

Last year, the program received more than 120 applications but could only accommodate 100 children due to staffing limitations. Woody credited Silver Valley Fire Rescue and EMS for stepping in to help supervise participants. 

“We successfully served those 100 children thanks to the generous support and collaboration of Silver Valley Fire Rescue and EMS,” Woody said. 

This year, participation from the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Department remains uncertain because of staffing shortages and a recent leadership change. Woody said he has not yet met with Sheriff Eddy to confirm involvement. To fill potential gaps, Osburn police have secured support from Silver Valley Fire Rescue and plan to invite officers from other agencies, including the Idaho State Police, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Marshals Service. 

Applications for the program are due by Dec. 1, and the event will take place Dec. 13 and 14. Families can apply online at cityofosburn.org or pick up forms at local law enforcement agencies. Children must live in Shoshone County, be in grades K-6, and demonstrate social or economic need. Only two children per household will be accepted. 

The number of children served depends on donations, which are handled by the City of Osburn. Community members who wish to help can contribute funds or nominate children for the program. Donations can be made by contacting the Osburn Police Department or visiting cityofosburn.org for details. 

“The number of kids we can help depends on donations,” Woody said. “We’ve set a figure of $100 per child, and every contribution makes a difference.”