FARMINGTON, MO. - After spending countless hours - much of it donated - to help restore power throughout St. Francois County following the recent ice storm, union electricians and electrical contractors are now restoring hope to disadvantaged families this holiday season. For the 12th consecutive year, the Electrical Connection is making a significant contribution to the annual St. Francois County "Shop with a Cop" program. The Electrical Connection, which represents union electricians and union electrical contractors in the region, has donated $3,000 to provide 300 underprivileged families with Christmas hams.

"While the Electrical Connection has supported Shop with a Cop for a dozen years, donating this year was even more special, given the hectic pace of helping restore power after the ice storm," said Danny Miller, owner of Farmington-based Total Electric.

The winter storm that swept the area Nov. 30, 2006, covered Farmington, Mo. in nearly an inch of ice. Miller's Total Electric, along with several other union electrical contractors, immediately went to work assisting with power restoration. Miller had more than 40 union electricians working extended hours compared to his normal complement of 20. Initially, they helped overcome problems caused by downed trees and installed generators - including one for the Easy Stop Store so the town would have access to gasoline.

"Our crews spent countless hours safely restoring power in extremely difficult conditions," said Miller. "With power restored, we are delighted to again turn our attention to brightening the holidays for the needy." The St. Francois County Sheriff's Association sponsors "Shop with a Cop." "Despite our busy schedules, there is no way we would miss out on an opportunity like this," said Miller. "We are part of this community. It's a privilege to support efforts that help the less fortunate, especially children."

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local #1 and the St. Louis Chapter, National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), form the Electrical Connection. Members provide safe and reliable electrical construction, maintenance, repair and replacement services throughout eastern Missouri.

The Christmas hams were purchased at Mel's Meat Market in Farmington, Mo.

"Shop with a Cop" also connects local police with disadvantaged children for a Christmas shopping trip later this month.