Several hundred children and police officers from the MetroWest area and beyond came together at the Walmart in Framingham on Wednesday, Dec. 18, for the annual “Shop with a Cop.” This year, each child was paired with an officer and received $50 to purchase toys of their choice. More than 500 children received Christmas gifts through the event, which featured a visit from the Grinch and Col. Geoffrey Noble of the Massachusetts State Police.

The Framingham Police Association provides much of the funding support for “Shop with a Cop.” Over the last nine years, the event has helped over 3,000 children receive holiday gifts.

Framingham School Resource Officer Kathy McGrath told CBS News Boston that the event embodies the spirit of giving during the holiday season. “It just fills my heart to see all the kids go out and have a great time and shop and enjoy themselves,” McGrath said.

Diego Resto-Maura has participated in “Shop with a Cop” for the last eight years and has been paired with McGrath each year. McGrath helped him choose a Marvel Iron Man and a Star Wars LEGO set for Christmas.

Diego said the experience is more than just about getting a gift. It’s getting to spend time with McGrath.

McGrath added that events like “Shop with a Cop” help students see officers as approachable and always ready to help. “If we have to respond to a school, we don’t want them to be afraid of us,” she said.