Oxnard police officers and firefighters takes kids shopping for Christmas

A shopping spree for several Oxnard kids took place Thursday morning inside Target at The Collection.

Shop till you drop took on a whole new meaning Thursday morning inside Target.

Thirty-two students from Oxnard elementary schools had the opportunity to shop with some special elves. It’s part of the annual Heroes and Helpers Event put on by the Oxnard Police and Fire Department.

“Officers and firefighters shop with the students who are selected from different schools, and they come to Target with a $200.00 gift card,” said Oxnard Police Sgt. Daniel Shrubb. “They are able to shop for themselves, for their families, and just have a great holiday season.”

This is the 8th year the event has taken place. Santa and Mrs. Claus kicked off the morning taking pictures with the kids, and then it was off to the races with their shopping carts.

“Schools themselves know their kids well, so they usually pick a child that they feel is either well deserving or perhaps has done some great things in their schools,” said Shrubb.

Students are selected by their resource officers and principals to go on the spree. While many students picked out gifts for themselves, others spent the majority of the money on family members.

“As an officer, or even a firefighter we take great pride in getting involved in the community,” said Shrubb. “When you help a young person or a family in need or just brighten their holiday season, that is the best and rewarding feeling that you can ever get.”