SHOP WITH A HERO
THE SALVATION ARMY OF PETOSKEY, WALMART AND PEPSI TEAM UP WITH LOCAL HEROES TO HELP 31 CHILDREN SHOP FOR GIFTS FOR THEIR FAMILIES
December 7, 2020, Petoskey, MI- The Salvation Army of Petoskey was approached by Walmart to facilitate their annual “Shop With A Hero” program in which Walmart Foundation and Pepsi teamed up to provide 31 children with $100 each plus gift wrap and extras to shop for Christmas gifts for their families. Twenty-nine heroes from many locations in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties participated in the forms of State Troopers, Police Officers, Sheriff’s Deputies, Fire Fighters, First Responders and Petoskey’s Mayor, John Murphy who took the children around the store to find gifts for their loved ones.
“It is always good to see events like this, but it is especially impressive to contact people and show that you care about them and this community in this climate with everything going on” said Michigan State Community Service Trooper, Corey Hebner. He then added “Northern Michigan is a special place. Showing people how and why our communities are so special gives other communities hope”.
David Mitchell, Store Manager of Petoskey Walmart said “We are proud we were to be able to partner with both Pepsi and the Salvation Army to help 31 kids and families this holiday season. Also, a huge thank you to all the heroes who took the time to be a part of the event. We are excited to continue to grow this event and cannot wait for next year”.
The children came to Walmart on Saturday, December 5th from as far north as Mackinaw City and Levering to East Jordan to shop for their loved ones. With happy tears, a grandmother mentioned it was the first time her granddaughter was ever able to shop for her family because they have never had enough money to buy gifts for everyone. The heroes were all very happy to participate and made the children feel at ease by relating to them at their level and sharing in their excitement and the Christmas spirit.
Envoy, Greg Irwin of The Salvation Army said “We are so proud and honored to partner with Walmart and Pepsi and the many heroes in Charlevoix in Emmet Counties who made a lasting impact for good in the lives of 31 area children. In these troubled times around our country, we are blessed to honor our law enforcement folks and first responders for the heroes that they truly are. Hats off to them and to Walmart and Pepsi for bringing the joyous spirit of Christmas to so many children … and adults”.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information about The Salvation Army of Petoskey programs or services, or to donate, please call (231) 347-3531 or visit www.SAPetoskey.org.