Blaine police officers take kids on holiday shopping spree

BLAINE, Minn. (KMSP) - The Blaine Police Department partnered with Target for a special holiday shopping spree with kids in need as part of the Heroes and Helpers event. 

Officers picked up students from school, brought them to the store in a squad car and then shopped with the kids. Each child had $125 to spend on his or her family. 

“The kids are selected by the school social workers because they know who needs some happiness around the holidays,” said Officer Michelle Ross. 

During the event, 60 students were paired with a police officer, sheriff's deputy, firefighter, state trooper or emergency services worker to help them with their list. Once they were done shopping, the officer helped the students wrap their presents, take photos and then gave them a ride home. 

In the last nine years, the program has doubled in size.