CAMBRIDGE — Local children will have some help with their studies and sports because of cooperation between the Sheriff’s Office and Crescent Cities Charities, (CCC) Inc.

On Friday, Paul Baiers of CCC presented a check for $2,500 to Dorchester Sheriff James W. Phillips Jr. The money will be used to buy academic and athletic gifts for children in need.

Recognizing the importance of success in school and fitness pursuits, Sheriff Phillips said, “We don’t buy video games or anything like that.”

That strategy fits well with the donor’s. “The mission of Crescent Cities Charities is to provide educational assistance to promising students with financial need and to provide grants and programs to worthy charities and community organizations in Prince George’s County and the surrounding region,” a statement on the group’s website said.

Founded in 1993, the 501(c)3 non-profit organization has donated to other causes in Dorchester County.

The Sheriff’s Office program “has been going on for 30-35 years,” Sheriff Phillips said. As deputies go about their duties during the year, they make note of families who might benefit from some extra support during the Christmas season.

“We work with the schools,” Sheriff Phillips said, adding that the effort covers the entire county. “We just reach out.”

He said other groups that have provided significant assistance to the program over the years are Custom Welding & Fabrication, Jess Jr.’s & Sons, and Koski Trucking.