With their wish lists in tow, a group of Ryder, Radez and Golding students headed to Walmart with students from other Schoharie County schools on Tuesday (Dec. 13) to enjoy a day of holiday shopping, hot chocolate, lunch at Little Italy and time spent with local law enforcement officers.
Students had the opportunity to shop for their loved ones, and check a few items off their own holiday wish lists, with the help of officers from the Cobleskill Police Department and deputies from the Schoharie County Sheriff’s Department.
“It’s just great fun,” said Schoharie County Deputy Emily McLaughlin. “We have just as much fun as the kids do. We love it. Just seeing them happy and getting to have lunch with them and spend the day, it’s a great time.”
The program is made possible through the generosity of many local businesses and community members. The Schoharie County Sheriff's Office collected donations and hosted a chicken barbecue to raise funds and Walmart contributed $2,000 for the shopping event.
After the shopping was done, students and officers headed to Little Italy to enjoy a delicious lunch of pizza, wings, salads and drinks. Little Italy also gifted each child with a $25 Visa gift card.
"Lots of school and community love was poured out on these children and their families!" said Becky Dostie, Ryder Elementary School Counselor.