TYLER, Texas — First responders teamed up with hundreds of East Texas families Thursday for a holiday shopping event designed to make Christmas brighter for children in need.

Through the Patrolman’s Blue Santa program, families spent the evening filling carts alongside officers, deputies and firefighters as part of an annual effort that continues to grow.

“We’re now pushing that 350 threshold,” Precinct 4 Constable Josh Joplin said. “I think we may even hit 400 depending on some of the ones that come in later in the night.”

Each child received $100 to pick out Christmas gifts—offering joy for kids and much-needed relief for parents managing tight budgets during the holiday season.

“It came just in time,” one parent said. “My kid’s birthday was yesterday, so now they get a little presen

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