HAZLE TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Dozens of local children are able to spread holiday cheer thanks to some help from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and a national retailer.
Troopers and the Walmart Supercenter near Hazleton teamed up on Sunday for Shop with a Cop.
36 children from the Hazleton Integration Program partnered with troopers to do some Christmas shopping.
Raising spirits at 10th Annual ‘Snow Forge’
Walmart provided each child with $135 to buy gifts for loved ones.
One state trooper says the seventh annual event is more than just about buying presents.
"It's not just about the presents here. We're teaching them the art of giving back. So, they're buying for their families. They came with a list of purchasing items for their family. And, we're also building relationships here. This isn't just about presents, too. We're building bonds with our young generation," said PSP Troop N Public Information Officer Trooper Anthony Petroski.
"I think a lot of times police officers get a bad rap because, you know, they pick up all the bad guys and it's nice to show the kids that, you know, they're here to help you, too," said Hazle Township Walmart Supercenter Store Manager Tiffany Nunemacher.
Kids got to take pictures with Santa and also received $20 from Walmart to buy something for themselves.
Afterward, they got help from troopers to wrap the gifts they would give to family members.
