Calling the manager is not going to do any good. The chance of charges being dropped are out of his hands totally. And the chances of them being dropped by the Prosecutor are about as good as a snowman's chance in Hell.
You have been arrested and charged. It's not "if charged" - you have been charged.
If you can't afford a lawyer, then when you get into court, plead "Not Guilty" and ask for a public defender. Ask about a diversion program (you may have to pay for this).
Expect a Civil Demand in the mail. Expect court costs and fines.
Shoplifting is expensive.....

