Shop with a Hero program helps children shop for Christmas gifts

Police officers, firefighters and first responders from Southeast Missouri took children to the store Dec. 7 for the Shop with a Hero program that gives money to children to spend on Christmas presents for themselves or others. Funds are raised through local police unions, the fire department, private donations and Walmart. More than 80 children were chosen from schools in the area to shop based on the family's need. Pictured here, Pam Chavez of Walmart hands out the money envelopes to "heroes" who are matched up with a child for the event.