The season of giving is upon us, and the Norman Police Department (NPD) is seeking community participation for its annual goodwill initiative. Aptly named the Fill the Cruiser – Holiday Toy and Diaper Drive, this event focuses on collecting new, unopened toys and essential baby items for families in need residing in the Norman area. The drive, now entering its successive year, hopes to bring holiday cheer to underserved members of the local community, particularly young children, according to a news release from the City of Norman.
The NPD last year supported over 250 children and 50 families through this initiative, providing not only toys but also a significant quantity of diapers and baby wipes to the Center for Children and Families. The NPD's efforts serve as a reminder of the ongoing needs within our midst, even as festive lights adorn the streets and shopping windows beckon with gaiety.
The donations being solicited by NPD include new, unopened toys suitable for children from birth to 12 years old, in addition to diapers of all sizes, pull-ups, baby wipes, and other baby items. To facilitate a convenient donation process, the department has made available an online wish list for toys and another for diapers and baby essentials, as mentioned in the same news.
Residents wishing to contribute to the Fill the Cruiser drive can drop off donations at the Norman Police Department, located at 112 W. Daws Street. The department is accepting items Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the collection period ending on December 15. According to a statement from the City of Norman, individuals or organizations interested in hosting an additional drop-off site, or those with questions about the initiative may contact Lt. Ali Jaffery at [email protected] for more information.
