The Kearney Police Department helped to make Christmas a little brighter for several local needy kids this week. The “Shop With A Cop” program took kids to Wal-Mart this year to buy presents for themselves and family members.

The police department teamed up with the Kearney School District and Kearney Enrichment Council to take 50 kids and their families Christmas shopping.

The “Shop With A Cop” is funded with help from private citizens and local businesses like J. Shaw Heating and Cooling, Price Chopper, Verimore Bank, American Pride, Fox and Fire, Tracy Tucker State Farm, Conrads, Platte Clay Electric, Kearney Trust, Singleton and Son, Bree Switzer Shelter Insurance, Stella Spiking State Farm, Taffs Carpets, Marimack Golf Complex and Oak Pointe of Kearney who participate in the “Shop With A Cop” golf tournament in the summer.

Volunteers also participate to help with the activities of the program.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story