MANKATO (TEC News) -- Mankato police officers and firefighters will be taking 20 local kids Christmas shopping Saturday for their annual "Shop With A Hero" event. The kids are selected with the help of the Salvation Army and donations including a grant from Wal-Mart pay for the holiday shopping trip.
Detective Commander Matt DuRose says they've been holding the event longer than the 12 years he's been a part of it since joining the Mankato Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Wal-Mart has partnered with the DPS since it's orginal location at K-Mart closed.
In addition to the Wal-Mart grant, donations come from the Fraternial Order of Police and private donations from the community. At time the "heros" add to the donation with with own money.
In the past, officers have bought Christmas trees and decorations for children and their families.
If you'd like to donate to the cause, you can contact DuRose at 507-387-8770.