Shop with a Hero Program

Event History

The Shop with a Hero event began in 2000, and brings together local law enforcement, first responders, and children in need for a day of holiday joy and giving. The program was established to foster positive relationships between youth and first responders while ensuring that families in need can experience the magic of the holiday season. With the generous support of community donations, grants, and local businesses, the program continues to grow, brightening the lives of countless children year after year. Since 2000, this program has helped over 1,000 familes and taken more than 2,600 children Christmas shopping. Each year, children are paired with a local hero—a police officer, firefighter, or EMT—who helps them shop for holiday gifts for their family members and themselves. It has become a beloved tradition in our community for the past 25 years.

Impact

In 2024, our community raised over $15,000, allowing us to provide a Merry Christmas for 105 children.

Donations

The process for this program which solicits community support begins with letters sent out to Neosho businesses and residents who have provided continuous support for this program. Donations can be mailed or brought to the police department during normal business hours. The Shop with a Hero Christmas Campaign is limited to residents within the City limits of Neosho and provides Christmas for the less fortunate children in Neosho, Missouri.

This program relies on donations from area businesses and private citizens only, no city funds are allocated for this event.

Please make all checks payable to:
Shop with a Hero
201 North College Street
Neosho, MO 64850

Apply

This year, the Shop with a Hero application process has moved online. Applicants can conveniently complete and submit their information through our digital form. Be sure to provide current contact information, as staff will use it to reach you during the review process and confirm your approval status. This program is for children ages 2-16.

APPLY FOR SHOP WITH A HERO

The application will open on 10/15/2025.

Rules & Regulations

• Each child will be awarded a set amount of money.
• All money awarded must be spent during the allotted shopping time.
• Any additional money not spent will be put back for another year.
• Gift cards and on-line gaming cards cannot be purchased. 
• Parents/Guardians are responsible for any additional charges that exceed the allowed amount.   
• Children are expected to follow directions from event staff and volunteers and always stay with their assigned staff/volunteer.

Contact Us

If you have any further questions contact 417-451-8012.

2025 Event