The Santa Cops project is a delightful annual effort to make the holiday season a bit brighter for area youngsters whose families need a hand up to make this time of year as merry as it should be.

The Fort Dodge Police Association, Webster County Sheriff’s Department, Fort Dodge/Webster County Reserves, Iowa State Patrol and Gowrie Police Department collaborate on a truly inspiring holiday undertaking. Officers took the young folks on holiday shopping sprees at Target in Fort Dodge on two evenings last week.

Area schools help pair law enforcement officers with needy families and children. The program is funded through private donations. The officers participate during time off from regular duties, but are in uniform for the shopping trip.

One particularly important aspect of the program is that children get to have one-on-one contact with an officer in a totally different environment than they would on the street. This helps shape positive attitudes regarding the role of law enforcement personnel in our community.

This is a marvelous holiday tradition that benefits both the children and the law enforcement officers who participate.

The adults say they are impressed and inspired by the generosity the young shoppers show. Frequently, the youngsters are more focused on what they can get for their loved ones than on fulfilling their own desires.

Looking for evidence of the Christmas spirit? You need look no farther than the Santa Cops and these youngsters.

The Messenger is an enthusiastic backer of the Santa Cops project. We urge our readers to give it their support as well.