For eight years the "Shop with a Cop" program has helped underprivileged children in Russell County have those things at Christmas everyone else takes for granted - toys, and warm clothes.

Russell Springs Police Sgt. Troy Young and the other members of the Fraternal Order of Police are asking that those in the community who have even just a little left over from buying their gifts to donate to the cause.

There are large donation jars set up at some of the convenience stores, but Young said any FOP member will be happy to take a donation.

"Every single penny we collect goes for getting these children something for Christmas," Young said.

Don Shappley, quartermaster for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7698, brought a check by the Jamestown Police Department late last week.

"We've been able to donate $600 a year for the last three years," Shappley said. He said he and the post members respect what the officers are doing for the neediest children in the county.

This year because of the tough financial times and some serious fund raising efforts on their part the VFW was able to increase their donation.

Young, who is FOP president this year, said they take 10 or more children every year to Kmart, to purchase toys and a few warm clothes to make up for what won't be under the tree at home.

Jamestown Police Lt. Tracy Irvin was on hand to receive the VFW donation said it will go a long way toward what they need to make these children's Christmas but more is needed.

Irvin, who has been on the shopping trips with children through the years said it is sometimes hard to keep the children focused on buying for themselves.

In the past she has said the children ask to forgo some things for themselves in order to be able to purchase something for a sibling or parent.

Young said that anyone who would like to help out can drop a donation by either of the police stations, the sheriff's office or the county jail.

As always police officers in the county continue to open cars for those who have locked their keys inside. Though there is never a charge for this service any donation a no-longer-stranded motorist may want to make to the Shop with a Cop program would be appreciated.

In most cities a lock smith charges $40 to $60 for locked car calls.