50 local kids treated to dinner & $100 shopping spree

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Christmas came early to dozens of local children Wednesday night.

Fifty kids were treated to dinner at McDonald's -- then a $100 shopping spree each at a Walmart in Independence.

All the children selected to participate are from Operation Breakthrough, an organization that provides a safe and educational environment to kids living in poverty.

The event was organized by former Kansas City Chiefs player Carlos Carson and his nonprofit organization, the Kansas City Swingers Golf Association.

"You'd be surprised what some of these kids shop for," Carson said. "You'd think it'd be all about toys, but for these kids it's about necessities, buying underwear, deodorant ... a lot of these things just for their family to survive. That brings a soft spot to your heart."

This is the sixth year for the shopping trip. The Swingers Club also awards scholarships to students throughout the year.