For more than 60 children, Monday night gave them a bright start to their holiday season.

Law enforcement from across the county participated in Shop With a Cop at South Point Walmart, buying gifts for families in need.

This event has been organized for more than a decade here in Lawrence County and is paid for through donations throughout the year.

Not only does the event help to provide clothing, food and toys for the children during the holiday season, but, as Sheriff Jeff Lawless has pointed out in the past, it gives the families a chance to see law enforcement working for them and in a different light.

Sometimes, cases referred to the program come from troubled homes and it is good for the children to know that these officers are there to serve the public good when they are called out and not to be afraid of them.

This program does much good each year and the happiness of the children is evident throughout the night and is infectious.

We commend all involved in organizing it and urge people to contribute to next year’s event.