9th Annual Heroes and Helpers Event takes over The Collection

OXNARD, Calif. - Some students from the Oxnard School District were chosen to go on a Christmas shopping spree with local authorities. It was all part of the 9th Annual Heroes and Helpers Event help at the Target in The Collection.

30 students within the Oxnard elementary school district were selected to shop away alongside Oxnard Police and the Fire department personnel for the event.

“For many of us, this is our favorite event of the year,” said Scott Whitney, Police chief for the Oxnard Police Department. “It really kicks off the Holiday Spirit.”

Students are selected by their teachers and counselors.

“Each year we reach out to the school campuses and ask them what child is standing out or maybe there is some dynamics at home that we are unsure of,” said Daniel Shrubb, with the Oxnard Police Department.

And then it is off to the races for the kids with a $200 gift card provided by Target and community members.

“What I think is unique about this event is not only are they buying things for themselves, but they are also buying for their families too,” said Shrubb.

Eight-year-old Jose Espinoza from Harrington Elementary said he was shopping for his family.

“It makes me joyful, because they will love it and I like it when they are happy,” said Espinoza.

Many baskets were jam-packed, as many officers chipped in their own money to pay the difference if kids went over their limit.