In a world that can be, often times, very negative, the Pittsfield Police Department is continuing to make a positive difference in the community.

With the help of some generous donations, the PPD will be giving 15 local children the opportunity to do some holiday shopping during the first ever "Shop With a Cop". The inaugural event will take place Wednesday, Dec. 13, as the children will be paired up with an officer while shopping at the Pittsfield Walmart, as well as Target at the Berkshire Mall.

"I am excited to announce a first ever 'Shop With A Cop' here in Pittsfield," said Pittsfield Police Officer Darren Derby via his Facebook page. "Thanks to a few generous donations, 15 kids will be spending some time with an assigned officer from Pittsfield Police Department, Berkshire County Sheriff's Office and Massachusetts State Police.

"One child has been chosen from each school by the administrators and a few extra from the community. I am hoping this year will only be a start to something bigger next year."

Derby is spearheading the holiday shopping spree for the youngsters. While the children will be given spending money to do with what they wish, Derby is hoping that they will use that money to enhance holiday spirit.

"Each kid will be given $100 to spend," Derby told Live 95.9 on Friday. "They are encouraged by their assisting officer and mentor about the meaning of Christmas. With that, we hope that they think about others and not only themselves while shopping."

The 2017 "Shop With a Cop" is sponsored in part by the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority, who will be providing a bus for transportation, as well as the Papa John's location in Lenox, which will provide dinner for the children.

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