Shop with a Responder

AIRWAY HEIGHTS – Walmart Supercenter hosted its heartwarming third annual "Shop with a First Responder" event Thursday, Dec. 14, bringing together 25 students from the Cheney School District. with local police and fire fighters.

The event, aimed at fostering positive interactions between local youth and first responders, took off with the kids getting paired up with police officers and firefighters.

Police Lt. Robert Swan said school counselors played a role in choosing participants.

The students created connections with law enforcement officers, firefighters and members of the state Department of Corrections here, he said.

Walmart's commitment to the community shone through as the company not only made a large donation to the event, but also provided pizzas, wrapping paper and support from their staff.

The atmosphere was nothing short of festive, with store Manager Joey Alwine emphasizing the importance of creating positive interactions between children and first responders.

"It's great for them to have an interaction with first responders that's positive, so they don't see law enforcement in a negative light," Alwine said.

City Manager Kevin Richey expressed his enthusiasm for the event.

"I love the event," he said. "It's an exciting opportunity for kids to celebrate Christmas, especially with first responders.

Five tablets were donated by Wolfie's Breakfast, distributed to one student from each elementary school.

The children were each ensured at least one significant present for themselves.

Anthony Kullburg, a 9-year-old participant, couldn't contain his excitement.

"I got a CM Punk set, Mortal Kombat I for the Nintendo Switch, an Xbox comforter and a Pokemon set," he said during the event.

Eddie Raymond, a 7-year-old participant, expressed his delight, saying, "I like my Lego Ninjago set the best!"

Author Bio

Clare McGraw, Reporter

Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.