By 1812Blockhouse
The holiday season is in full swing, and the Shelby Police Department has once again launched its annual toy drive, a cherished community tradition aimed at supporting local families in need. The program, now in its tenth year, continues to grow, providing crucial support to families in the Shelby City School District who are facing unexpected challenges.
Spreading Joy One Gift at a Time
This year, the toy drive is specifically designed to assist families who may have missed other local programs or experienced recent hardships. Donations collected through this initiative will ensure that children in need have gifts to open on Christmas morning. Any remaining items will be donated to the Shelby Helpline to bolster their 2025 holiday program, ensuring no donation goes unused.
To maximize efficiency, the department has implemented a new procedure: donated gifts should be unwrapped. Wrapping paper will be provided so families can personally wrap their children’s gifts, preserving the joy of the holiday tradition. This change also streamlines the process of organizing donations by age and gender.
How to Donate
- Donation Guidelines: Only new, unused, and unopened gifts are accepted. While all gifts are welcome, the department emphasizes a particular need for teenage-appropriate items, often the most overlooked demographic. Gift cards are a versatile option and highly appreciated.
- Where to Donate: Donations can be dropped off 24/7 at the Shelby Justice Center. Simply enter through the front door, notify the dispatch window staff, and place your gift under the Christmas tree.
- Deadline: Donations are accepted through Christmas Eve.
Local businesses, civic organizations, and groups are encouraged to participate collectively. Group photos with officers are welcome, adding a personal touch to the community effort. To have your photos featured on the Shelby Police Facebook page, simply message them directly.
A Caring Community in Action
Families in need can apply by contacting the Shelby Police Department at 419-347-2242. Dispatchers will guide applicants through the process, which includes vetting to ensure assistance reaches those who need it most. While the department accepts online messages, they recommend phone applications for quicker responses.
The Shelby Police Department credits the program’s success to the generosity of its community. “We are fortunate to live in a caring community that gives freely to those in need,” they noted. This year’s drive aims to continue this legacy of kindness, ensuring every child experiences the magic of the holidays.
Supporting Teens: A Key Focus
While toys for younger children are often abundant, the department has highlighted a particular need for gifts geared toward teenagers. From gadgets to personal care items, thoughtful donations for teens can make a meaningful difference. Gift cards remain the simplest and most impactful option for this age group.
Sharing the Spirit of Giving
The department invites donors to celebrate their contributions by snapping a photo with the tree or an officer. “If we have someone available, we will be happy to have an officer come out for a photo with you or your group,” they added. Sharing these moments not only highlights the collective generosity of the community but also inspires others to get involved.
Get Involved Today
Whether donating a single toy or organizing a group contribution, every act of kindness counts. The annual toy drive exemplifies the Shelby community’s unwavering spirit of giving, reminding us all of the true meaning of the season.
Image by Speedy McVroom from Pixabay
