“Men in Blue” beard up for a cause

MARQUETTE — While many parents are planning ahead with lists and gifts, Marquette’s men in blue have started planning ahead as well to make sure some local foster children know Santa did not forget them this year.

Shop With A Cop is a December favorite, and officers beard up for the cause. This will be the sixth year Marquette police officers have joined with other local organizations to bring kids a Christmas to remember.

“Anything we can do to help the community, kids are an important part of our community. We raised almost $1,000 last year, said Officer Marty Munger. “We each pay $25 for six months to wear beards, and then all that money goes to Shop With A Cop.”

Last year, more than 60 kids spent the day with local law enforcement checking off their Christmas list items. Although shopping was a great enticement and was fun for the kids, police say the ultimate goal is a great experience and connection with kids.

“To see the kids happy, excited and to have that contact with the kids. I have kids of my own and to have the opportunity to converse with them and get to know them a lot better beyond what we do beyond on the street it’s a good thing, a good cause, instead of a bad contact,” Officer Munger continued.

Last year, more than 48 different organizations donated time, money or services to make Shop With A Cop a success.