About 140 local kids woke up early Saturday morning, not to watch cartoons but, to participate in the annual Shop With A Cop event.

SWAC gives each child an opportunity to go on a shopping spree through Wal-Mart, 1436 Dogwood Drive, Conyers, accompanied by an officer from the Conyers Police Department, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office and Georgia State Patrol. Each child is given $100 to use at their disposal.

“This is the 7th year Conyers has organized, fund raised, and provided a wonderful holiday experience for underprivileged children in Rockdale County,” said Conyers Police spokesperson Kim Lucas in an e-mail to The News. “This, of course, is a very family oriented event, not just for the children, but for our officers as well.  Many officers bring their spouses and children along to help.”

Mostly all the children rushed to the toy section of the retail giant, using all their funds on toy guns, dolls, action figures and bikes. Santa and Mrs. Claus were on hand to take pictures with each child and their newly purchased items. 

The event began at 8 a.m. with parents needing to register their kids for the program. It lasted for about three hours.