A Camp Cadet Community Program
Shop With A Cop
Uniformed officers paired with children who have faced hardship — for a day of shopping, lunch, and gift wrapping that builds lasting community bonds.
About SWAC
Building Community Through Service
The SWAC program was created by PA State Police Troop J Lancaster Station and Camp Cadet of Lancaster County to foster positive, meaningful relationships between youth and law enforcement. Each participating child is paired with a uniformed officer who escorts them through the store, helping them select gifts for their family members. The shopping event is followed by a community lunch and gift wrapping.
It is the desire of Troop J Lancaster and local law enforcement to provide positive interactions with the young people of our communities — and SWAC is one of the most direct ways we do that.
How It Works
From Nomination to a Day They'll Never Forget
Nomination
School-age children who have been victims of a crime or faced unfortunate circumstances are nominated by community members, educators, or law enforcement.
Shopping Day
Each child is paired with a uniformed officer and given funds to shop for gifts for their family members — a joyful, personal experience guided by their officer partner.
Lunch & Gift Wrapping
After shopping, participants enjoy a community lunch together and wrap their gifts — a warm celebration of the day and the bonds formed.
Eligibility
Who Participates in SWAC
SWAC participants are selected by program coordinators from the broader Camp Cadet community. Children who have faced hardship or difficult circumstances are given priority consideration. Coordinators work with community members, educators, and law enforcement to identify children who would most benefit from the experience.
SWAC participation is coordinated through Camp Cadet of Lancaster County program staff.
Nominate a Child for Shop With A Cop
Know a child from Lancaster or York County who has faced hardship and would benefit from a special day with a uniformed officer? Submit a SWAC nomination — the program is free to all families.
SWAC participants are selected by nomination only.
Support Camp Cadet — your donation helps provide a free, life-changing experience for local youth.