LINN  — On Saturday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office led the third annual Shop with a Hero program, working with several agencies to provide 32 students an opportunity to shop at Linn Thriftway and Dollar General in Linn. Each child had $100 per location to purchase gifts for themselves, family members, and friends. Many children bought things for other people.

“Members of the sheriff’s office are honored to volunteer our time for the Shop With a Hero program,” said Sheriff Mike Bonham. “It’s a way to give back, build stronger communities, and give kids a chance to see us in a different setting. Walking around the store shopping, sitting down and taking a picture with Santa, and then getting that big hug at the end from the child you shopped with — you just can’t beat it. The community support is amazing, and we have formed a board to oversee and give direction to the program, which makes it more inclusive from different points of view. This program could not exist without the help of business leaders and individuals that make it possible.”

A total of 40 students were invited to participate, and all area schools were represented except Belle and Chamois.

EMS, fire, military, law enforcement, corrections officers, Conservation agents, and other community representatives took time to help. “We couldn’t be happier with the hero turnout this year, and we are thankful for each one who participated in the event and the agencies who allowed them the time off to do so,” said Capt. Travis Shaffer. “Also, we would like to thank the Shop with a Hero committee members who worked behind the scenes throughout the year, devoting their time and energy to ensure each child had the best possible experience with this event.”

Joining the sheriff’s office were the Linn Police Department, the city of Linn, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri Department of Corrections, Missouri Department of Conservation, Osage Ambulance District, Maries Osage Ambulance District, Linn Fire Protection District, Meta Fire, Chamois Fire Protection District,  Missouri National Guard, Rudroff Bus Company, Osage County Health Department (OCHD), STCM nursing students, the Osage County Anti-Drug Community Action Team (OC-ADCAT), and the Central Missouri Community Action Group (CMCA).

Students were paired with heroes and broken into two groups. One went to Linn Thriftway, and the other to Dollar General, transported by Rudroff Bus Company. They had an hour at the first location and then switched before heading to Barefoot Event Center. They were greeted by volunteers there to wrap presents.

Santa Claus met the kids at Barefoot Event Center, visited with them, took several photos (and a group photo), and handed out candy. He even signed a cast for a young girl.