The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) is bringing some joy to the holiday season with its 11th Annual Fill the Cruiser Toy Drive. This community initiative gathers new, unwrapped toys for children in need, from newborns to 17-year-olds, throughout Arlington. As the festive period unwraps, locals are encouraged to drop off their donations across multiple events and locations, ensuring every child has a reason to smile this holiday.
Donation hotspots are mobilizing on select dates in November and December, starting November 8. Aided by volunteers, police cruisers will station themselves outside places of worship, shopping centers, and even a holiday-themed village celebration to accept the public's contributions. Driving the effort, collected toys will go towards the Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots program, as detailed on the Arlington official website.
In cases where residents can't make it to these events, ACPD has made arrangements for stationary drop boxes. They are available across Arlington — from coffee shops to libraries, and even at a fitness center. The collection begins on November 1 and runs until December 8, offering ample opportunity for people to participate in the season of giving. A full list of locations can be found on Arlington County's official announcement.
The Arlington community has expressed that previous years' drives have significantly impacted local families during the holidays. By dropping off toys at convenient locations such as Haute Dogs and Ruthie's All-Day, those who generously donate can take part in the collective effort to spread holiday cheer. With locations strewn across the county, there's hardly an excuse not to chip in.
Officers will be present at Our Lady of Lourdes Church on November 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Arlington Assembly of God from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and on subsequent dates at Lee Harrison Shopping Center and The Village at Shirlington, among others. For residents wanting to offer their help without attending in person, the stationary drop boxes offer a convenient alternative, ensuring no child is left without the joy of a gift this holiday season.
