Christmas came early for almost 150 local children during McDonald County's annual Shop With A Hero event on Dec. 22.
The air was thick with excitement as deserving kids were paired with a local law enforcement officer, firefighter or emergency responder to chaperon as they chose gifts for themselves and, often, for family members, too.
Throughout the year, local police and fire departments raise funds for the annual program. Sheriff Michael Hall said $11,700 was raised in 2017, which allowed each child about $90 to spend.
Deserving children in need are selected by staff at elementary schools in the county and submitted to the McDonald County Sheriff's Office. Deputies then compare the list to other area charities to prevent overlap.
An array of local agencies were represented at Shop With A Hero, including MCSO, Pineville Marshal's Office, White Rock Fire Department, Anderson Police Department, and the Criminal Justice department from Crowder College, to name a few.
Community on 01/04/2018