Shopping spree donations desperately needed

With the Holiday with a Hero shopping spree fast approaching, organizers are beginning to worry they won't have enough money to handle the large number of children in need of a little Christmas miracle this year.

Carson City Sheriff's Detective Dena Lacy said thus far, generous community members have donated $4,200 to the program But with 150 children on the list, it's just not enough.

"All this money goes to the kids. Christmas is all about kids, and if you ask any parent, what they want most for Christmas is for their kids to have a good Christmas. These are truly kids in need," said Lacy. "They are truly the children this year who won't have a Christmas otherwise."

Formerly called Christmas With a Cop, this year's event is entitled Holiday with a Hero, because more than just police officers are volunteering their time, said Lacy.

Lacy said another change from the previous five years is that Holiday with a Hero will focus this year solely on elementary school children. In years past middle schoolers have been included.

Lacy said the need in the elementary schools is greater, while the middle and high schools have other programs for children in need.

The goal is to raise $15,000 so that each child can spend a $100 gift card at Walmart. Walmart waives the sales tax, and the children are escorted Dec. 16 on their shopping spree by a volunteer.

The children also are fed lunch.

"Everyone is in one way or another affected by this harsh economy. However, these children are living in cars, hotels, or doubled up with another family," said Lacy. "They are our little guys and girls and they don't understand why this is happening to them and why they don't have any presents under the tree."

All cash donations can be dropped off or mailed to the Carson City Sheriff's Office, 911 E. Musser St., Carson City, 89701. Write "Holiday with a Hero" in the memo field.

For more information, contact Lacy at 887-2020 ext. 41405 or Detective Daniel Gonzales at ext. 41407.