The City of Surprise is inviting community participation in a donation drive honoring first responders and commemorating the September 11 tragedy. As part of the September Day of Service event, the city is collecting hygiene items and clothing to support individuals in need. Donations will be accepted through September 10, with the goal of assembling care kits for distribution by public safety and community vitality teams, according to the city’s annoucement.
Residents who wish to help can contribute items like water, Gatorade, toothpaste, and new undergarments. Donations can be brought to multiple drop-off points throughout the city, including public safety buildings and local fire stations. These locations have been strategically chosen to to easily facilitate the gathering of donations from all corners of the community. The city's website lists detailed addresses and hours of operation for these drop-off points.
Alongside the donation drive, the Day of Service will integrate a Battle of the Badges Blood Drive, taking place on September 11, at Surprise City Hall. This event, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., invites community members not only to donate blood but also to bring along their item donations. For anyone seeking more information about this blood drive or future Day of Service events, including the packaging of collected items into kits, the relevant contacts have been provided on the city’s announcement page. Community Engagement Partner Kara Poling can be reached for event queries, and Fire & Life Safety Education Specialist Jamie Michler for blood drive details.
Surprise Human Service & Community Vitality urges the public to follow their social media channels on Facebook, X, and Instagram at @SurpriseCares for ongoing updates. Residents can sign up for notifications to stay informed and discover various ways to actively participate. Further details about these opportunities and methods to connect with the community are available on the city's official news page.
