MISHAWAKA — Seven Royal Excursion buses, led by a motorcycle escort from the Cass County Sheriff, Berrien County Sheriff, St. Joseph County, Indiana Sheriff and Mishawaka Police Departments will converge on the Target store in Mishawaka today. 

The buses have been chartered by the McLoughlin Family Foundation and will transport 187 students in grades first through fourth from Cassopolis and Dowagiac elementary schools, along with one of their parents, to Target.  The students will have been chosen to attend the 12th annual Great Start event by their principals, teachers and counselors. Selection criteria is based on achievement in school, strong work habits, attendance and good attitude, as well as a financial need.  Each child attending Great Start is allowed to spend $200 on school clothes, shoes, backpack and books.  The entire cost of the shopping spree is paid for by the McLoughlin Family Foundation.   Target is offering a personalized shopping experience to the students beginning at 7 a.m.

The McLoughlin Family Foundation, located in Cassopolis is a privately funded organization that began 20 years ago.  Their main goal is to contribute to local charities and organizations that fall outside the reach of larger national organizations, focusing primarily on children and families, officials said. 

The first Great Start shopping event was in 2007, 100 children were invited and the event has grown each year since.  The Great Start event is modeled after a program called “Smart Start” developed by professional golfer Phil Mickelson and his charitable organization.  The Mickelson organization provides a similar shopping experience to children in his hometown of San Diego.