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Hundreds Of Kids Partner Up With A Cop To Finish Their Christmas Shopping

TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- It's a very special holiday tradition. More than 100 Baltimore County kids finish their Christmas shopping, but they had some backup.

Linh Bui explains.

It's always more fun to shop with a buddy, and not just any buddy--a Baltimore County police officer.

Who needs Santa and his elves when you've got police officers? At Baltimore County's 12th annual "Shop with a Cop," more than 100 kids did their holiday shopping. Each got $100 to spend at Wal-Mart.

The Optimist Club in Baltimore County provided the money.

"Really fun for us to have the kids so they have an enjoyable Christmas," said Gary Shultz, President, Timonium Optimist Club.

And officers bring a little more cash to pitch in.

"All these officers love doing this. Love helping out the kids," said Officer Bakhsh, Baltimore County Police Department.

"I can like get a bunch of stuff and have some fun," said Kelson Lloyd.

For Kalina Brockindton, it's all about giving.

"Presents for my family. And this one is special because it's for my brother," she said. "I wanted something special for my mom so I got her a necklace."

She did not get a single thing for herself.

"It makes it a lot better when it's a good kid and they want to buy presents for their family instead of themselves," said Officer Viator.

Officers say they're building relationships, while helping families have a happy holiday.

And once they were done shopping, the kids were treated to breakfast at Outback Steakhouse.

Baltimore County's "Shop with a Cop" event is the largest in the state.

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