A local 13-year-old boy selected to spend a day shopping with a cop decided to use the opportunity to give back to others instead of buying for himself.

Mason Ray was picked by the Penn Township Police Department to take part in its shop with a cop at the Delmont Walmart, after what had not been an easy year.

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His father was seriously hurt in a motorcycle accident and just two days later, his mother lost her battle with lung cancer.

“I don't think we could overestimate the impact these last few weeks had on his life,” said Penn Township Police Chief John Otto. “We would just like to take this opportunity to bring something positive into his life.”

The shop with a cop program gives back to kids like Mason who’ve endured a tough year. But Mason wasn’t thinking about himself.

“I went Christmas shopping and I didn't get everybody, so I figured this would be a perfect opportunity,” said Mason.

He said he likes giving rather than receiving.

“He understands the spirit of Christmas. He understands he's surrounded by a lot of people who support and care for him. To give back speaks volumes to the type of character he has,” said Otto.

A GoFundMe account has been established to help Mason's family. CLICK HERE to donate.

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