South Florida Local News
Broward Sheriff’s Office brings season cheer with annual Shop with the Sheriff holiday event for students in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – The Broward Sheriff’s Office is bringing holiday cheer to students across the county with its annual Shop with the Sheriff event, scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 17, at the Walmart Supercenter in Fort Lauderdale. The festive tradition, now in its nearly 20th year, is designed to provide students with a memorable shopping experience and support families during the holiday season.
The event is fully sponsored by the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County and will kick off at 9 a.m. More than 150 students have been selected to participate, each receiving a $200 gift card to shop for gifts, clothing, and other essentials. Volunteers from BSO, including sworn officers, civilian staff, and members of the Sheriff’s Foundation, will be paired with each student to provide guidance, encouragement, and a sense of community during their shopping experience.
“Shop with the Sheriff is a special opportunity to connect with our youth and bring a little extra joy to the holiday season,” said Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony. The program not only provides tangible support for families but also allows BSO staff to engage directly with students in a positive and uplifting environment, fostering trust and meaningful relationships.
For nearly two decades, BSO school resource deputies have organized the event, selecting students from various districts across Broward County. Participants are chosen based on criteria that include good behavior, financial need, and a desire to recognize students who demonstrate commitment and responsibility in their schools and communities. This careful selection ensures that the program reaches students who will benefit most from the holiday experience.
In addition to shopping, the event offers students the chance to interact with law enforcement officers outside of their traditional roles, providing a unique opportunity for mentorship and community building. Volunteers help students make thoughtful purchases, ensuring they have gifts to enjoy and share with their families, creating lasting memories that extend beyond the holiday season.
Media representatives interested in covering the event are asked to RSVP with BSO’s Public Information Office by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 16. The organization emphasizes that the event is a celebration of community spirit, generosity, and the positive impact of police and community partnerships.
The Shop with the Sheriff program remains one of Broward County’s most cherished holiday traditions, blending support, celebration, and mentorship to brighten the lives of students and their families during the holiday season.
Pine Crest School senior Lucia Lecour earns national recognition as a 2026 Coca-Cola Scholar for leadership and service
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall will be on display at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie this April
Fort Lauderdale to resurface and improve the boat ramp at Riverland Woods Park for safer community access
Students step inside powerful Hate Ends Now cattle car exhibit to experience a deeply moving Holocaust education program
Governor Ron DeSantis unveils new statue honoring President James Monroe as Florida marks the long road toward America’s 250th birthday celebration
Tallahassee commissioner Jack Porter allegedly attacked during confrontation with woman who accused her of stealing a pet cat
Guy Harvey Foundation and Coastal Conservation Association Florida join forces to expand conservation education for Florida students and teachers
Broward Education Foundation hosts 29th annual Innovative Teacher IDEA Expo bringing together hundreds of educators from across Broward County
Broward County Public Schools to hold news conference immediately after school board budget workshop on February 17
James Uthmeier charges six individuals in organized cargo theft ring responsible for more than 30 thefts and nearly eight million dollars in losses across multiple Florida counties
Blaise Ingoglia announces arrest of licensed insurance agent accused of committing fraud and identity theft in Miami Dade County
Broward Sheriff’s Office missing persons detectives seek public help in locating 38-year-old woman reported missing in Fort Lauderdale
Attorney General James Uthmeier charges six suspects in organized cargo theft ring responsible for more than 33 thefts and nearly 8 million dollars in losses across Florida
Commissioner Wilton Simpson praises Fifth DCA ruling that blocks back-door attempt to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida
