A group of 29 teenagers from Palatka, Florida, enjoyed a unique holiday experience on March 3, 2024, as they participated in the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office’s seventh annual Shop With a Deputy program. This initiative pairs local youth with law enforcement officers for a shopping spree aimed at meeting needs, fostering relationships, and restoring a sense of normalcy during the festive season.
The event took place at Walmart, located at 1024 S. State Road 19, where each teen received $250 to spend on gifts. Supported by the 10-24 Foundation, a nonprofit organization that aids law enforcement personnel and their families, this year’s program expanded its reach significantly, according to Allison Waters-Merritt, the sheriff’s office public information officer. “This was our biggest year yet,” she stated, emphasizing the foundation’s role in facilitating donations and community involvement.
Building Trust and Community Connections
Sheriff Gator DeLoach, who chairs the 10-24 Foundation, highlighted the emotional impact of the event on both deputies and teens. The name “10-24” refers to a law enforcement radio code meaning “officer in need of assistance.” DeLoach remarked, “For our deputies, as well as our kids, this is a humbling and emotional experience.” The program aims to change perceptions of law enforcement among teens, some of whom may have encountered officers during difficult moments in their lives.
“While one shopping trip cannot change everything, it can open doors,” DeLoach explained. “Now they have someone to call on for help.” The foundation’s involvement allows for tax-deductible contributions from businesses and individuals, which helps broaden the program’s scope. Originally, deputies pooled personal funds to support children during the holidays.
Teens selected for the program do not need to apply; instead, deputies collaborate with the Putnam County School District and victim advocacy units to identify those facing hardships, such as homelessness or family crises. Waters-Merritt noted, “Teenagers often fall through the cracks during the holidays. Toy drives don’t usually reach them.” This initiative provides a chance to rebuild trust while fulfilling genuine needs.
A Memorable Shopping Experience
The day began with teens checking in at the sheriff’s office, where they were paired with deputies for a ride in patrol vehicles, complete with lights and sirens, to Walmart. Each deputy accompanied two teens as they shopped for approximately two hours. Waters-Merritt emphasized the importance of allowing teens to choose how to spend their money without judgment. “We want them to be kids and experience a normal Christmas,” she said.
Some teens purchased gifts for themselves, while others thought of siblings or family members. One participant even bought laundry detergent, illustrating the complex realities faced by some of these youths. After shopping, deputies assisted with gift wrapping before treating the teens to a pizza lunch.
Walmart employees actively contributed to the event’s success, raising funds, providing assistance during shopping, and even organizing visits from Santa and the Grinch. “They were incredible partners,” Waters-Merritt said, ensuring that every child found something on their wish list.
The 10-24 Foundation was established after Deputy Randy Hayes sustained serious injuries in a shooting incident while on duty. Hayes, who has since recovered and serves as a lieutenant overseeing school resource deputies, participated in this year’s Shop With a Deputy event. He expressed the significance of the program, stating that it allows deputies to connect with teens in a more personal manner than typical law enforcement interactions.
“A lot of these kids don’t have a whole lot to look forward to,” Hayes said. “Just giving them a chance to be happy is pretty awesome.” The initiative aims to create early, positive interactions with law enforcement, counteracting negative perceptions formed during stressful encounters or through media portrayals.
With an estimated total expenditure of $8,000 for this year’s program, including additional donations received during the event, Waters-Merritt noted that the emotional impact encourages deputies to volunteer year after year. “It’s such a positive experience,” she added. “I have deputies who sign up every single year because they love it.”
The Shop With a Deputy program not only provides essential support to local youth but also fosters community trust and understanding. By creating space for positive interactions, it offers a glimpse of hope and joy, especially during the holiday season.
