NASHVILLE, Tenn. —Titans defensive end Kamerion Wimbley recently hosted his annual "Shop with a Jock" event, which treated 37 young people who are in foster care to a shopping spree where they could select needs and wants for the holiday season.
The participants, who are assisted by **non-profit Youth Villages**, ranged in age from children to teens. They were partnered up with Titans players to walk through an area Walmart with gift cards to pick out toys and games, clothes and electronics.
"This is a special event for me and my foundation," Wimbley said. "I'm happy to be here and partner with Walmart to bring Christmas to kids in this area who otherwise may not have had a Christmas."
Wimbley had help from Titans teammates Patrick Bailey, Moise Fokou, Zaviar Gooden, Jason McCourty, Derrick Morgan, Ropati Pitoitua, Coty Sensabaugh, George Wilson, Jonathan Willard and Khalid Wooten.
Some youth knew what they wanted right away, while others were more deliberate as they perused the store. That was fine with the players, who enjoyed meeting the young people and spreading cheer.
"The best part is getting together with some of the fellows on my team and being able to interact with the kids and listen to their stories and just communicating with them to learn their interests and get them things that they really wanted for their Christmas," Wimbley said.
Wimbley said he appreciated the partnership with Walmart and the support from teammates. He spent part of his youth in foster care, and he said the assistance he received during that time helped him so he is glad to help others.
"I think it's great for me to have a chance to give back," Wimbley said. "I went through a foster care system at one point, and it's good to know somebody cares. There were people who were there for me during the tough times, and I think it's great that I have the opportunity to be there for other people when they need it."
