WASHINGTON — Every year agencies from Washington and Idaho team up to make Christmas a special time for disadvantaged children.
“This is the one you look forward to,” said Lt. Stuart Miller of the Kootenai County Sheriffs.
Holidays and Heroes is a program aimed to please the community. Local first responders were hanging out with the kids and making sure their Christmas trees are stacked up once that big day arrives.
Their commitment to service is a major reason why so many volunteers get involved. Nick James was one of those volunteers who dedicated his Sunday morning to help.
“To these kids, this is as big as it gets for them,” James said.
The day started at Walmart with the children shopping alongside their heroes. After that, they made their way to the Greyhound Park Center in Post Falls to wrap presents and meet Santa.
On top of all the fun, it’s just a chance to form long-lasting bonds between those who grow up in the community and those who protect it.
“This gives kids and their families who wouldn’t necessarily have one, a great Christmas,” Miller explained.
The event wouldn’t be complete without some sirens and lights so once everything was wrapped up, they gave the children a ride home in their vehicles.