Toot’s diners can enjoy “good food and fun” and make Christmas merrier for 35 homeless children during the “Shop with a Sheriff” fund-raiser from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Toot’s on Broad and Toot’s South.

School resource officers and Sheriff’s Citizens Academy Alumni Association members will ask Toot’s customers to support the children who otherwise will not experience the magic of Christmas.

SROs coordinate with Rutherford County Schools’ staff to select students with financial needs to “Shop with a Sheriff” Dec. 16 at Target, said Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh.

The “Shop with a Sheriff” event provides Christmas presents for homeless children whose family cannot afford to buy gifts. SROs and alumni members accompany the children when they shop.

“It is heart-warming to see these children choose their own presents and carefully select gifts for their sisters and brothers as well,” Fitzhugh said. “The wonder on their faces makes the Christmas season special. We appreciate the Toot’s staff and customers who make this event possible.”

Toot’s South General Manager Matt Utterback said Toot's supports the community. 

“By having such loyal customers that continue to support us, we are able to contribute to great causes such as the Shop with a Sheriff event,” Utterback said. “We think it's amazing how the Sheriff's Office puts this event together and provides a Christmas for 35 homeless children.  Getting to see the smile on all those children's faces is what it's all about.”

General Manager Nick Hays at Toot’s on Broad said the staff takes pride in “our partnership with the RCSO to help these children have a magical Christmas. We love that our community rallies around events such as this and that we can provide a venue for this fundraiser. It is truly awesome to know together we can provide a Christmas to around 35 homeless children.” 

Photo: SRO Lt. Alan Garner and Olivia Kill check out with Target cashier Tiffany Thompson.