Officer Jones’ shopper picks out a Spiderman bike.  

THOMASVILLE- Tuesday night, kids enjoyed the magic of Christmas during the annual Wander with a First Responder event. 

The event paired children with first responders from Thomasville Fire Rescue, Thomas County Fire Rescue, Thomas County Emergency Services and Thomasville Police Department. The duos then went shopping for Christmas goodies at Walmart and enjoyed a taco bar dinner at El Jalisco, while receiving visits from Santa. 

According to Public Information Officer Cpl. Crystal Parker, the event is designed to not only help families who are less fortunate during the holidays, but gives children the opportunity to learn to trust first responders as friends and allies. 

“We hope kids leave the experience knowing that we are the good guys and we are always here to help them, if they need us,” she said. “Some kids only see officers or other responders when we are investigating a crime or handling a crash or other negative situation, and we want them to know we are here for the good times as well.” 

Good times were certainly had on Tuesday night, as children left with bicycles, scooters, dolls and laptops. 

These purchases were made possible through the generosity of multiple donors throughout the year, including Envision Credit Union, Modern Woodmen of America, City of Thomasville, Walmart and Archbold Memorial Hospital.  

“We are thankful for all of the support of the community, the other agencies who participated with us, and for the opportunity to make a small, positive impact on a child’s life,” Parker said. 

While the emergency responders were hoping to make a positive impact in the children’s lives, the kids also left a mark on them. 

“We are all kid-oriented people, but a couple of us really connected with our kids,” said Lisa Griffis, Administrative Chief for Thomas County Fire Rescue and Deputy EMA Director. 

Griffis said she was able to shop with a girl whose sister was also in attendance. Both of the girls were quiet, but by the end of the night, she said they were beaming with joy. 

“It can be overwhelming to eat dinner and then shop with someone you’ve never met, but the energy is just really electric and by the end up the night everyone leaves happy,” she said. 

Griffis said she was thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the children’s night, as it is something she looks forward to throughout the year.