Holiday Magic Unfolds as First Responders Transform Shopping Into Special Moments for Kids

The holiday season reached new heights of heartwarming moments as Billings first responders made shopping dreams come true for dozens of children facing difficult circumstances.

Saturday's sixth annual Shop with a Cop event brought together nearly 50 children from across Yellowstone and Carbon counties for an unforgettable morning filled with sirens, surprises, and genuine smiles.

The magic started early.

A spectacular procession of emergency vehicles, complete with flashing lights and wailing sirens, made its way from MetraPark to the West End Walmart on King Avenue West.

Children got to experience the thrill of pressing buttons and speaking through overhead speakers, creating memories that will last far beyond the holiday season.

Deputy Fire Marshal Becky Biggins paired with fifth-grader Zoey Jean Schroeder from Elder Grove Elementary, creating an instant connection that showcased the program's deeper purpose.

"She was overjoyed that she got selected and she got to do it," Biggins reflected on the experience.

The generosity of local businesses and community members made each $350 shopping spree possible.

Every donated dollar goes directly to the children, with 100% of funds raised supporting the program.

What impressed volunteers most wasn't the excitement over toys and games, but the children's instinct to think of others first.

Many youngsters filled their carts with gifts for family members, friends, and even pets before considering their own wishes.

One child asked her volunteer partner if she could buy steaks for dinner, demonstrating a selfless spirit that moved even seasoned officers.

The collaborative effort brought together volunteers from the Billings Police Department, Billings Fire Department, Yellowstone and Carbon County sheriff's offices, Montana Highway Patrol, Laurel Police Department, AMR, and several other agencies.

For first responders who regularly encounter tragedy and heartbreak in their daily work, the event provided a powerful reminder of the positive impact they can have.

Yellowstone County Sheriff's Deputy Destiny Stamm emphasized the joy of "seeing the smile on their faces and watching them light up when they get a whole shopping cart full of stuff."

The selection process ensures help reaches those who need it most.

Schools and community organizations across the region, including Child Protective Services and local nonprofits, nominate children who may be experiencing financial hardship or personal challenges.

Some participants have endured house fires, family losses, or other difficult circumstances during what should be a joyful time of year.

For families like the Schroeders, the program creates ripple effects of relief and gratitude that extend well beyond the shopping trip itself.

"It will give us less to have to shop for," Zoey's mother Jeannie acknowledged, expressing deep appreciation for the unexpected opportunity.

The event represents more than holiday giving – it's about building bridges between law enforcement and the communities they serve, showing children that officers and first responders care about their well-being beyond emergency situations.

As Billings continues to grow and face economic challenges, programs like Shop with a Cop demonstrate the power of community partnerships in creating meaningful change for families who need support most.

The success of this year's event already has organizers planning for an even bigger celebration next December.