Deputies Take Local Kids on Holiday Shopping Sprees

Hundreds of deserving children in San Bernardino County will experience the joy of holiday shopping through the long-standing partnership between the Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Association (SEBA) and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, made possible by our annual Shop With A Cop events. Each December, more than a dozen events are held across the county, bringing nearly $100,000 in holiday cheer to children in the communities we proudly serve.

“Santa Claus should always visit the most vulnerable in our communities to grant wishes and spread joy,” said Sheriff Shannon Dicus. “Protecting our communities and inspiring hope is at the core of what deputy sheriffs do. Through this program, we’re able to lend a hand to Santa Claus.”

SEBA members, along with other Sheriff’s Department volunteers, partner with deserving children to provide them with a shopping spree. Each child receives $200 to spend on items like clothes, toys, and electronics, helping them get into the holiday spirit despite any challenges their families may be facing. The deputies assist the children in choosing their items and managing their budget as they make their way through the store.

“Our members love participating in this program, not just because of the gifts and toys, but because of the time we get to spend with these kids,” said Sgt. Grant Ward, SEBA President. “It’s an opportunity for our members to bond with the kids—outside of any law enforcement capacity—and simply have fun, getting to know them, their interests, and helping them pick out some cool stuff.”

For more than two decades, SEBA has proudly provided the Shop With A Cop program, representing deputies, probation corrections officers and supervisors, DA investigators, Coroner Investigators, Fraud Investigators, Specialized Fire Services, and other public safety professionals.