Kevin Martin Foundation holds Christmas shopping event

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- Christmas was made special for some Zanesville children thanks to one local foundation.

The Kevin Martin Youth Foundation held a “Christmas Shopping with Kevin Martin” event Wednesday night at the Wal-Mart on Maple Avenue.

Approximately 120 Zanesville children were selected to partake in the event.

“We invited some kids from the local area to enjoy a night of shopping here at Wal-Mart,” said Kevin Martin, former NBA player.

The former Zanesville Blue Devil said he had help from the school system in selecting kids who would benefit from the assistance this holiday season.

“It’s just one of those events that brings a lot of joy and spirit around this time of year,” said Martin.

Each child was allotted a $200 tab and there were no restrictions with what they could chose from.

“It’s a time for them to be kids and they can get whatever they want. They can buy something for their family or themselves, they have the whole store to buy whatever and just have fun with it,” said Martin.

This is the 10th year the foundation has held the shopping event, but the first year that Martin as been able to attend.

“Actually being here you know that takes it to a whole new level. When you actually see the kids smiling and laughing and just happy you know that’s more than somebody telling me over the phone so I’m very fortunate to be here this year,” said Martin.

Martin said he’s thankful for all the sponsors and people behind the scenes who helped make the event possible.