A gift of holiday spirit

Victoria is all smiles as the 11-year-old gives hugs to Senior Airman Elisha Gangloff. Photo by Brian S. Orban

The spontaneous rounds of applause temporarily drowned out the buzz of activity at Wal-Mart. The routine continued each time a law officer, fire fighter or military person stepped into the building.

But the applause wasn't meant for those men and women. It was a unique way of welcoming the nearly 125 children who were preparing for their own special day -- a chance to bring joy and hope to their families in time for Christmas.

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Mountain Home's Shop With A Cop program provided that hope. It gave these children a chance to buy gifts for themselves and their loved ones -- a luxury none of them could otherwise afford.

Most children started their shopping experience by selecting gifts for their brothers and sisters as well as their parents. Photo by Brian S. Orban

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