Hero's Helpers helps local youth with Christmas shopping

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Wednesday, Dec 19, a group of kids hit the toy aisle with Mobile Police Officers. It’s part of a program called “Hero’s and Helpers.”

It’s a nationwide program through Target that selects certain cities to participate. The store gives each child a $100 gift card to help cross off items on his or her Christmas wish list.

Sgt. Zandra Jackson with the Mobile Police Department Family Intervention Team said they work with the kids chosen year round and they are very deserving.

"They’re juveniles that we assist with whatever area. Whether there is a monetary area, academic, whatever the case is we provide those services and those resources to help the families,” said Jackson.

Parents were very appreciative of the effort.

"I’m very appreciative. I mean, not everybody wants to give back to the community; and I’m thankful they are doing it,” said one mother.

The event wasn’t just about shopping. The kids got to spend some quality time with the men and women of the Mobile Police Department.

"It’s so cool. I've never seen a policeman this close," said one kid shopping with an officer.

Officer Gary Owens said it is all worth it when you see the children smile.

"As an officer, it’s not always about catching the bad guys. Being a mentor to a young one is an achievement we all can do to make someone's life a little better,” said Owens.

The Mobile Police Department would also like to thank the Mobile County Law Enforcement Association for its part in making this day possible.