OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) brought joy and smiles to local children during its annual Shop with a Cop event on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024.

The festive day began with a surprise guest – the Grinch – who playfully handed out “gifts” that turned out to be onions. Despite the Grinch’s antics, the children, families, and deputies shared plenty of laughter and holiday spirit.

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods may not like what's in that box.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods may not like what’s in that box. Courtesy: MCSO
Deputy Reed laughs at his "sweet" gift from The Grinch - a Vidalia onion.
Deputy Reed laughs at his “sweet” gift from The Grinch – a Vidalia onion. Courtesy: MCSO
The Grinch brought smiles and tears of laughter with his special gift.
The Grinch brought smiles and tears of laughter with his special gift. Courtesy: MCSO

The event featured a pizza party sponsored by Coca-Cola, setting the stage for an afternoon of exciting Christmas shopping. Walmart graciously provided snacks and food for families, ensuring everyone felt the holiday cheer.

Families and Marion County Sheriff's deputies get to know each other.
Families and Marion County Sheriff’s deputies get to know each other. Courtesy: MCSO
Deputies and community members enjoyed snacks and beverages thanks to Walmart and Coca Cola.
Deputies and community members enjoyed snacks and beverages thanks to Walmart and Coca Cola. Courtesy: MCSO
Coca-Cola provided food and drinks for the party.
Coca-Cola provided food and drinks for the party. Courtesy: MCSO

The Shop with a Cop program aims to provide a memorable holiday experience for children in need while fostering positive connections with law enforcement officers. Thanks to the generosity of private donors, the event continues to make a significant impact year after year.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office participated in Shop with a Cop on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office participated in Shop with a Cop on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. Courtesy: MCSO
Marion County deputies assist children with their Christmas shopping, ensuring holiday wishes come true during the Shop with a Cop event.
Marion County deputies assist children with their Christmas shopping, ensuring holiday wishes come true during the Shop with a Cop event. Courtesy: MCSO
Shop with a Cop is a fun event for deputies and kids.
Shop with a Cop is a fun event for deputies and kids. Courtesy: MCSO
Marion County Sheriff's deputies and excited children had fun together during the annual Shop with a Cop event, spreading holiday cheer and smiles.
Marion County Sheriff’s deputies and excited children had fun together during the annual Shop with a Cop event, spreading holiday cheer and smiles. Courtesy: MCSO

“If you would like to be a donor and directly impact local children in need, just go to our website at www.marionso.com, click ‘how to donate,’ and look for ‘community outreach’ on the drop-down menu,” the MCSO shared.

The Sheriff’s Office expressed deep gratitude to the community members and organizations whose contributions make this event possible, creating unforgettable moments for Marion County families during the holiday season.

For more information or to contribute to the Shop with a Cop program, visit www.marionso.com.