MISHAWAKA, Ind. (WSBT) — Notre Dame student-athletes took a break from football to shop with local youth Saturday morning.

More than 100 expected elementary and middle school children met with the Fighting Irish football team on campus.

The students were from the Pokagon tribal community and the Boys and Girls Club of St Joseph County.

The football players and young students traveled together on buses to Meijer- where they paired up to go holiday shopping.

Melissa Conway, Director of Community Partnerships & Giving at Meijer, says this is something she loves being a part of each year.

“For more than a decade, this initiative continues to be a wonderful way to bring joy to local youth during the holiday season. It’s an honor to be part of an effort that unites student-athletes, law enforcement and community members to make a meaningful impact for children and families in the Greater South Bend area.”

Conway says for more than a decade this initiative continues to bring joy to local youth during the holiday season.