Members of the recently established Northern Panhandle American Legion Riders Post 10 gathered Wednesday to assist this year’s Shop with a Cop program in Hancock County, presenting a donation of $1,000 for the cause. (Photo by Craig Howell)

WEIRTON – Days before its scheduled shopping trip, Hancock County’s Shop with a Cop program received a boost from a group of veterans who also happen to be motorcycle enthusiasts.

The Northern Panhandle American Legion Riders Post 10 were only established Nov. 1, but already has been finding ways to give back to the community. Among those efforts was the contribution Wednesday of $1,000 to the Shop with a Cop program.

“We’re here to support veterans and their families, and give back to the community,” explained Charlie Poland, president of the local chapter.

With more than 2,000 chapters currently in operation, the American Legion Riders began in 1993 as a way to connect Legion members and family members who shared a love for motorcycles. Today, chapters are active by providing escorts for military units returning home from overseas tours, serving as a guard for military funerals, and organizing fundraisers in support of a variety of community organizations.

In addition to the $1,000 from the American Legion Riders, a donation of $300 from the American Legion Post 10 itself was presented Wednesday.

Deputy Chance Weyand, who coordinates Hancock County’s Shop with a Cop program, noted this year’s shopping trip is set to take place Sunday at the Weirton Walmart.

“We’re doing two shopping trips this year,” he explained, noting local law enforcement officers will be shopping with 18 families.

He said there has been an increased focus on deputies and officers being on hand for the shopping trips, in an effort to make certain those children supported through the program are shopping and interacting with local law enforcement.

Hancock County’s program began in 1987 by members of the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department, with civilian volunteers stepping in for a while to lead the effort. It returned to full oversight by the Hancock County Deputy Sheriff’s Association this year.

It is fully supported through donations from the community, which can be mailed – through check or money order – to Shop with a Cop, P.O. Box 210, New Cumberland, WV 26047.

“We accept donations year round,” Weyand said.

Poland explained the Legion Riders of Post 10 also have been teaming up with other chapters in the area for additional fundraiser efforts, including one for Toys for Tots, and they are looking forward to other opportunities in the near future.

chowell@weirtondailytimes.com