Students rewarded for good behavior with annual shopping spree

Students rewarded for good behavior with annual shopping spree
Sandy Spurney of Lakeshore plays Christmas elf for Mariah and Savannah, students at Sanctuary on 8th Street.

Youngsters and their chaperones took to the aisles at the Target store on Roosevelt Boulevard during the 11th annual Sanctuary on 8th Street holiday shopping spree Dec 12.

Paired with chaperones, the 41 elementary school students in Sanctuary’s after-school program checked out toys, clothing and items for gifts, after making some tough decisions when they exceeded their $75 limit. One child purchased a Christmas tree for his family, while another said she wanted to buy a present for each of her cousins who were coming for the holidays.

Students who attend the program every day, work hard and exhibit good behavior are rewarded with the annual field trip. There were many first-timers this year in kindergarten and first grade, and eyes lit up at the toy aisles. Several of the chaperones this year were old hands at the event as well as those who regularly help with after-school lessons at the Springfield-based nonprofit.

In addition to a $2,000 grant from Target, funds for the spree were donated by the chaperones and other supporters of the Sanctuary on 8th Street. Target set aside two registers for the school as well as a break room with snacks for the kids after their exhausting shopping adventure.

“The holiday shopping experience is a highlight of our Christmas season for not only our children, but for our staff, donors and volunteers. We are very grateful to everyone who helped make the afternoon a resounding success,” said Rick Cartlidge, executive director.

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