DURANT – On Wednesday morning, many Durant police officers and other officials in the community gathered at Walmart to help youth and children shop for what they want for Christmas.
And the policemen were picking up the bill.
More than 120 families were blessed as a part of this year’s activity which is the 16th year for the event.
Brandon Mitchell of the Durant Police Department said the law enforcement people involved really enjoy being a part of it.
“This is the best part of what we get to do is giving back to our community,” Mitchell said. “It’s being with the kids and letting them know that they can come to us if they need us and that we’re approachable.”
Families names were submitted to those in charge of the event earlier in the year and were selected by a board. The funds used for the shopping spree came from donations and fundraising.
The Durant Police Department was joined by members of the Durant Fire Department, FBI, Choctaw Tribal Police, Bryan County Sheriff’s Department and volunteers from the community to help the children purchase their toys and the staff from Walmart helped to make it a smooth experience.