Shop with a Cop Brings Community Partners Together to Support Selma Families

On Friday, December 19, the aisles of the Selma Walmart were filled with excited energy. Children moved up and down the aisles, stopping, circling back, and carefully weighing their choices. For many, it was a rare chance to take their time, look closely, and choose a toy they had only imagined having before.


The Selma Police Department partnered with the Selma Business Collaborative, Walmart, and the Selma Boys & Girls Club to host a Shop with a Cop event focused on supporting local families during the holiday season. Through the Selma Boys & Girls Club, 10 families were selected to participate, each receiving $200 in store credit funded through a Walmart grant. Families were able to choose toys, clothing, snacks, and essential items based on their own needs.

Throughout the store, Selma police officers walked alongside families, offering help, conversation, and company. For several newer officers, the event created an opportunity to spend time with residents in a setting centered on generosity and shared experience.

“This gave our younger officers a space to simply be with the community,” said Sergeant Andrew Guzman. “They were able to meet residents, connect with youth, and take part in moments that go beyond the day-to-day calls for service.”

While the shopping experience brought immediate joy to participating families, the event also reflected the strength of local partnerships. By working together, city departments, nonprofit organizations, and private partners were able to turn grant funding into direct support for Selma families.

Shop with a Cop is one example of how collaboration can create meaningful moments and lasting impact. The City of Selma thanks the Selma Police Department, the Selma Business Collaborative, Walmart, and the Selma Boys & Girls Club for their commitment to serving the community and making the holiday season brighter for local families.