Kentucky State Police, Post 10 had their annual ‘Shop with a Trooper’ event on Thursday in collaboration with Barbourville Walmart and Forcht Bank.

Troopers spend the entire year getting ready for the day they get to take 22 kids to shop for clothes and toys with $120 to spend. It takes donations and support from the entire community.

“Today is a great day, it’s all about these kids. It’s about getting them what they need for Christmas. That’s what Christmas is about, giving back. It’s important to realize that this is a total community event,” said Trooper Shane Jacobs.

“All the children in the community, you know, you want to help them,” said Toshua Harrell, Barbourville Walmart Store Manager. “This is a great opportunity. It’s also a great cause to help all the children in the community, and that’s what we’re here for.”

One little girl named was asked what she wanted for Christmas. The item she wanted most? A Christmas tree. When Forcht Bank staff, troopers, and those working at Walmart gathered around to hear Santa delivered it to her before she left.

Afterward, the kids and troopers moved to Forcht Bank where lunch was provided. The luncheon is something co-owner Marion Forcht looks forward to each year.

“Each child just grabs your heart. I’m a mother of four, a grandmother of 11, and a great-grandmother of four. When you see children that do not have the opportunity that others do, it just touches you,” said Forcht.

Everyone kid also went home with a bike from Walmart that they picked out during a luncheon with Santa Claus at Forcht Bank.