For Release 12/22/06

Canton Police Department and Canton Leisure Services have partnered with Meijer to bring the holiday "Shop with a Cop" program to Canton this year. Twenty-five children ages 11-14 have been chosen by Canton Leisure Services to participate this Saturday, December 23, 10:00 a.m., at the Meijer store located on Ford Road in Canton. Children will be transported to the store by Leisure Services personnel. Upon arrival the kids will be given a Meijer gift card worth $80-$100. Children will then shop with Canton police officers, selecting items they would like to purchase with their gift card. Afterward, Meijer will be hosting a pizza party for the participants, and each will be given a gift basket to take home along with their purchases.

"These 25 kids were chosen to participate in this program based on their involvement with the B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center," said Canton Recreation Coordinator Jon LaFever. "They have maintained good study habits, grades, and positive behavior in order to attend. Their participation in the "Shop with a Cop" program is a reward for their efforts and an incentive for the future," he adds.

For more information on the B.L.O.C.K. and its programs, contact Canton's Leisure Services Division at 734/394-5360.