A Season of Giving: Stoddard County’s First Responders Unite to Spread Joy to 300 Children

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving is alive and well in Stoddard County. The annual “Shop with a Hero” event, organized by local law enforcement, firemen, probation and parole officers, and EMS personnel, is set to bring joy to approximately 300 children this December. This cherished tradition not only provides a memorable Christmas shopping experience for children but also strengthens community bonds.

Eligibility and Registration

To participate in the “Shop with a Hero” event, families must meet specific eligibility criteria. Families with children aged 3 to 10 who reside in Stoddard County are invited to register, provided they can present proof of eligibility. This includes documentation of free lunch qualification from their school, proof of state assistance such as Medicaid, SNAP, or EBT for those in home school, Head Start, or preschool, and proof of current physical address through a utility bill, pay stub, or lease agreement. Additionally, a birth certificate or Medicaid card with the child’s date of birth is required.

Registration will take place from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4 to Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Stoddard County 911 Services, located at 512 Cooper St., Dexter. Families are encouraged to bring all necessary documents to streamline the registration process.

A Community United

The “Shop with a Hero” event is a testament to the dedication and compassion of Stoddard County’s emergency responders, according to those involved with the project. On the first two Sundays in December, these heroes will gather at Walmart to accompany children on a shopping spree, ensuring they have gifts to unwrap on Christmas morning. This initiative not only provides material support but also fosters positive relationships between children and the community’s first responders.

In a time when community trust and collaboration are more important than ever, events like “Shop with a Hero” highlight the positive impact of local initiatives.