SALEM POLICE BEGIN 25TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE
Posted: December 5th, 2011 2:59 PM
The Salem Police Department is now accepting donations for the 25th annual Salem Police Toy Drive. This event will take place on December 19 and 20 when Youth Services Officers will deliver toys to needy children in our community. The Toy Drive has become a tradition at the Salem Police Department and provides holiday toys, good cheer, and a chance to interact with police officers to many needy children in our community.
The Salem Police Toy Drive got its start as a result of a tragedy in December of 1986. A school liaison officer responded to the scene of a suicide, and in the belongings of the deceased he found a Christmas wish list written by the young daughter of the victim. The list deeply affected many at the Police Department and a collection was taken by Department members to fill the wish list. This was the beginning of the annual toy drive which still touches the heart of many local Salem residents and police employees.
For the fourth year, students at Blanchet High School will spend hundreds of hours assisting with the toy drive by gathering, organizing, wrapping and coordinating the delivery of the toys. Salem Police Volunteer Coordinator Jennifer Graber said "The Blanchet students have become such a big partner in this event. Their enthusiasm, work ethic and desire to make a difference in the community have been an incredible asset to the Toy Drive."
Salem Deputy Police Chief James Ferraris, who heads up the department Investigations Division, stated "We are very proud of our Toy Drive and all who work so hard to make it happen every year. Not only do we get the opportunity to provide toys to children who may otherwise not get any presents, but we also get the chance to interact with children and families for a fun and positive reason. Thanks to all who donate towards the cause and those who work behind the scenes to keep this program going strong."
Please help make the holidays brighter for children in our community by donating NEW unwrapped toys for children ages infant through 12 years. Sorry, no used toys can be accepted. Donated toys and monetary donations can be dropped of at the Salem Police Department, 555 Liberty St SE, Room 130, Salem, OR 97301.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance this year, please call the toy drive hotline at 503-540-2444.
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