SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office and Operation Kid Forward are giving kids the shopping spree of the season. Local officials and handpicked kids across the coastal empire got the chance to shop together today.

“We give them a hundred dollars each,” said Nisha Giustino, founder of Operation Kid Forward.

“A lot of local heroes come and do one on one interactions with the kids,” said Giustino.

Operation Kid Forward’s tradition started three years ago. The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, Savannah Police Department and the local Army Recruiting station are all in on the fun now, taking kids to buy whatever they want.

Sargeant First Class Kiera Lowe says she’s grateful for the opportunity to give back.

“Even though we’re out here shopping for them and today has been about them, a lot of the kids wanted to get something for another family member. You know they still consider others in such a giving season that was dedicated specifically to them,” said Lowe.

Sherif Lockett, a sargeant with the Savannah Police Department, says this is also about getting kids comfortable and safe with law enforcement.

SOT: “It’s always important to build a relationship with the community and especially with the children so that they know that if they ever need assistance or if that they’re ever in a dire straights that they can come to law enforcement and that we’re there to help them and that we’re they’re to be their friend and mentor them when needed,” said Lockett.

The children participating are in first to fifth grade and handpicked by school counselors and community partners. A day of shopping turned into an unforgettable experience for many.

“I think that anytime you can pay it forward you should,” said Giustino.

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