JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- One hundred local kids from lower income families got the chance to "shop with a cop" at a Walmart on Beach and Southside boulevards this morning.
It's all part of the "Cops and Kids" event held by the Fraternal Order of Police.
"These are kids that otherwise the parents or the family wouldn't have the means to be able to get them Christmas gifts," said Nelson Cuba, President of the Fraternal Order of Police.
Instead of splurging on herself, 8 year-old Melissa Mora went prepared with a list of gifts to get her five sisters.
"I'm really happy that I won and I hope to make the best of it," said Melissa.
The children were chosen by the Jacksonville Housing Authority, 100 Black Men of Jacksonville, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Police Athletic League and Hola Noticias.
For many, this will be the only time they get to shop for Christmas presents.
"You'll see some heartwarming stories. Last year we had one where he wasn't looking for toys he wanted food for his family," said Cuba.
Each child was given a $100 gift card and paired with a JSO officer who helped them shop.
According to Cuba, he and all the officers look forward to this event every year.
"My favorite part is seeing the smiles on the face of the kids and letting them see that as police officers we're out here to help them and we do positive things," said Cuba.
It's the 10th year the Fraternal Order of Police put on this event.
