MURFREESBORO, TN - More than 35 Rutherford County school students will experience a merrier Christmas, thanks to Toot’s restaurants and their diners

Sheriff’s school resource officers will collect donations from diners during the annual Shop with a Sheriff fundraiser from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3 at all three Murfreesboro Toot’s restaurants.

Volunteers from the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy Alumni Association will collect contributions as well.

SRO Sgt. Dustin Cox said SROs will use the donations to take the children shopping before Christmas.

 “The children are excited because they would not get Christmas because of the economy,” Cox said. “This is an opportunity for them to buy what they want and the SROs help them get what they need. It allows them to experience what Christmas is like.”

Toot’s restaurants have sponsored the Shop with a Sheriff fundraiser for more than 12 years.

“Toot’s is one of our best supporters in Rutherford County that allows us to obtain donations from their customers so we can take these kids shopping,” Cox said.

Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh said Toot’s restaurants’ owners and staff care about serving Rutherford County through numerous events throughout the year.

“They are true community supporters of the children and the Sheriff’s Office,” Fitzhugh said.

Toot’s Restaurants’ President Nick Hays said Toot’s is honored to hold the fundraiser.

“The feeling that it gives us to help these kids is indescribable,” Hays said. “Over the years, this fundraiser has brought Christmas joy to so many households. We cherish the opportunity to be a part of Shop with a Sheriff and are so appreciative of the RCSO for what they do for our community.”

Cox thanked the people who donate to Shop with a Sheriff each year.

 “We wouldn’t be able to do this without the citizens of this county,” Cox said. “To see the kids the items they need and want at Christmas gives u a reason to get up and do our jobs.”