The Franklin Police Department has started its annual Holiday Toy Drive, collecting new, unwrapped toys for children and teenagers. Donations can be dropped off at Police Headquarters on Columbia Avenue during weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until December 18, according to the City of Franklin.
The toy drive, launched in 2016, honors Kristi Clark and her son Carter Oakley, who were killed in 2015 while helping others after a crash on I-65, as reported by the City of Franklin. Their story has become the symbol of the initiative, reflecting the community’s spirit of giving and compassion.
The Franklin Police Department is honoring Kristi’s father, Brad Lewis, a wooden toy chest craftsman who continued his work while battling cancer. "Brad Lewis embodied the very spirit of this toy drive," said Police Chief Deb Faulkner. “Even through his own pain, he chose to be a light for others,” she added. The department is asking residents, businesses, community organizations, and schools to contribute to the toy drive, with each donated toy going to families in need, as stated by the City of Franklin.
