Student Santas shop for those in need

The crowd rushed through the doors at the Mundelein Target store ready to shop Thursday morning.

Rather than adults looking for Black Friday-type deals, it was first through fourth grade students from Fremont schools ready to snag gifts for less fortunate children this holiday season.

“It's not every day that you go on a field trip to Target,” said Olivia Popovich, 9. “To know we like stuff like this, it makes us really happy they can receive this.”

It's the 17th year teachers from the Fremont Elementary and Intermediate schools have taken a busload of students shopping to buy gifts for 25 children who come from struggling families in a neighboring school district.

“We thought it was a great service activity to get the kids involved in the community,” multiage teacher Dianne Hamelly said.

The gift money was raised through contributions and donations made by families in Fremont Elementary District 79.

Groups of students, matched with a parent volunteer, were given $55 for each child they were buying for and a description of that child, including age, clothing size and interests. Each group used the money to buy a book, clothes and a toy for children 3 months to 17 years of age.

In each group, the children discussed what to buy. Searching for a Dora the Explorer toy, one group also found a pair of black boots for their 3-year-old girl.

“I like to get the girl clothes so she has something to wear,” said 8-year-old Ashley Kyle. “We want to keep her warm.”

Four girls smiled as they filled the cart with a flannel blanket, pajamas, barrettes, beauty items and decorations to give to a 17-year-old girl.

“You get to get what she really likes, and you get to help people,” said Lacey Luther, 9.

Multiage teacher Susan Wittenkeller said the activity also is a great math lesson for the students, who carried calculators through the store to track their purchases and stick to a budget.

With $6 left, one group headed to the $1 section and looked at scented lip balms and body lotions to complete a gift for a 12-year-old girl.

“It's my favorite thing to do,” said Amelia Lee, 9.

Many groups saw how close they came to spending their $55.

“There was only 3 cents left,” said 9-year-old Tommy Donahoe.

Carrying candy canes given by Target and red bags, the students headed back to show off their purchases and wrap the gifts.

“I like helping other people who can't afford something for Christmas,” said 8-year-old Zac Swearingen.