In 2001, members of the Fort Dodge Police Association chose to sponsor the Santa Cops program as a way for law enforcement to give back to the community, while also building a supportive and caring relationship with Webster County’s youth.

As part of the event Target graciously agreed to partner with the Police Department by hosting the event at their store, 2910 First Ave. S..

Names of students between the grade levels of kindergarten through sixth grade are provided by the counselors in the various Webster County schools.

The first year 41 students were invited to shop at Target with local officers.

The need for donations has grown and over the last few years the number of children has grown.

This year, officers shopped with 134 children. Members from the Fort Dodge Police Department, the Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Gowrie Police Department, Iowa State Patrol, and the police-sheriff’s reserves all come together on two nights in December to take part in the event.

This is a very positive experience not only for the kids, but for the officers as well. The event could not be done either without the help of the team at Target coordinating the event at the store and Legacy Realtors for coming back every year to wrap gifts and this year bringing the special guest The Grinch.

The Fort Dodge Police Association would like to thank the businesses and community members for their commitment to our community and your donations to this great program. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated.