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Smiles shine through masks at Wood County Shop With a Cop

By Tyler Bennett 2 min read

PARKERSBURG -- The Fraternal Order of Police Blennerhassett Lodge 79 helped 107 kids make their Christmas a little brighter by having "Shop a Cop" at Wal-Mart in both Parkersburg and Vienna on Saturday morning. Spending over $13,000 on gifts, the kids had a $125 limit and had free reign in deciding items, according to lodge President Beniah Depue.

"It is an absolute privilege that we get to take part in this every year and despite the coronavirus pandemic, this year has been better than we've had. We've raised more money, we've been able to have more kids and it's been fantastic," Depue said. "If they need or what clothes they can get, if they want to get four or five sets of Legos they can get that too. It's all about the kids and anything they want."

The Lodge also worked with Wood County Schools to see what kids in the area would benefit the most from the program.

Depue gave thanks to The T-Shirt Factory, McClinton Chevrolet, Atlas Steel, Marine Corps League Wood County Detachment 1087, Wal-Mart of Parkersburg and Vienna, Friends of NRA, and the community that bought back the blue t-shirts and even donated items or money the day of the event. Saying the event wouldn't be possible without the help.

"I just want to thank the citizens of Wood County, the law enforcement officers of Wood County, all of our area businesses. Walmart for making this an outstanding success, it's because of them being able to do it and it is an absolute privilege," Depue said.

Tyler Bennett can be reached at tbennett@newsandsentinel.com

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