CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. — Eight lucky kids got to take in a Target shopping spree and ride-along with the Cheektowaga Police Department Monday.

It's all part of a new initiative called the "Blue Mittens Project."

It was started this time last year in partnership with a few community not-for-profits.

The project provides shopping money for underprivileged families just in time for the holidays.

"It's a great feeling to know that they can just get what they want without having to worry about it,” said Cheektowaga resident Mike Mcinerney. “Just enjoy and get gifts that they normally wouldn't be able to get, so it's awesome.”

The Cheektowaga Police Department says they're hoping to help even more families next year, but they'll need some donations to do so. Anyone interested in donating is asked to stop by the police department.