BY KYLE LOVERN
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

SOUTH WILLIAMSON — The Mingo County Deputy Sheriff’s Association’s “Shop With A Deputy” program took place two evenings at the South Williamson Walmart on Dec. 18 and 19.

The annual Christmas program has been going on for nearly 30 years now.

Sgt. Norman Mines, MCDSA president, said approximately 15 pre-K through fifth-grade kids got the chance to select toys and other appropriate Christmas gifts. The kids were designated by Mingo County school administration from each of the county’s six PK-8s and Dingess Elementary.

Sgt. Mines said the amount each child got to spend was once again $150. The program always includes at-home siblings getting to spend a certain amount for gifts as well.

Leading up to the shopping event, the deputies gathered donations from businesses and individuals for several weeks. They also had roadblocks to help with the funding.

This year they partnered with the Serve First Foundation, according to Mines.