LOS ANGELES–Members of the Los Angeles Rams teamed with members of UNIFY Financial Credit Union to host a shopping spree for 100 youth served by The Salvation Army.
Youth between the ages of five and 14 went shopping with Rams players as well as Rams Cheerleaders and staff members to purchase up to $200 in holiday gifts at a local Walmart. Following the shopping spree, participants had the opportunity to sit down with players and staff for a meal.
"As a player, giving back and being around is always something good for the community," said Rams cornerback Tre Tomlinson .
Tomlinson's shopper was 12-year-old Isabella Espino who felt a personal connection to the shopping experience. "My grandpa passed away and he really loved the Rams. It's like he's looking down, happy for us."
Tomlinson added he enjoyed helping his shopper pick out things she wanted for Christmas. It also provided her with the opportunity to grab items for her little brothers and mom, the credit union said, adding she was grateful that she was able to pick out items that would help her family.
Lisa Barnes, Salvation Army secretary of the LA Metro Division, said, "I think these kids are recognizing this opportunity, not just to shop but to be with the community [and] be with the Rams. What a powerful partnership...I know it's not lost on these kids what a gift today is."
Discussing the impact of the shopping spree during the holiday season, Barnes emphasized the sprees Salvation Army puts on throughout the year as she mentioned, "We know that need knows no season."
Added Rams nose tackle Kobie Turner, "It gave my personal shopper the opportunity to be able to go and get his family some gifts and get them some presents and find something special for them."
In addition, the children joined in on the Nickelodeon's Let’s Draw! Activity to draw and paint pictures to take home or to give to their shopping partner in appreciation of the event.