STUART, Fla. — A group of Martin County students are all visually impaired, but that's not stopping them from picking out the perfect holiday gifts.
But none of them will keep what they are buying.
Thanks to Stuart police, these kids can buy a special gift for a child who would not normally get one.
"These children are not just shopping for themselves, they are shopping for less fortunate children and they are utilizing the skills that they’ve learned in their class to navigate the mall," said Sgt. Brian Bossio with the Stuart Police Department.
Stuart police started this give back day more than 20 years ago. They said they have seen students grow up from elementary school to graduation and beyond.
The goal is to teach children about philanthropy, and also test their skills of navigating and getting around busy places like a shopping mall.
But there's also another lesson in the partnership: to let the community know they are not only there in bad times.
"That is our mission to reach out to the community, make connections with the children, and really develop relationships to show them we are your friend and not someone to be afraid of," said Bossio.
There were several students picking out some special presents this week.
5th grader Juana Andres said she did the shopping last year and really liked it this year. She picked out a stuffed toy for a special girl or boy.
"I thought it would be prefect for a little child, cause little kids love imaginative things," said Andres.
Police organizers said the money comes from the Stuart Police Officers Association.
