Mt. Pleasant Police start annual toy drive

MT. PLEASANT — As the Mt. Pleasant Police Department looks to hold their annual toy drive again this year, they ask the community for assistance.

This is an annual event the department puts together to ensure every child in the community has a gift under the tree on Christmas morning.

“We are looking for names of families who may need some assistance this year,” Chief Lyle Murray said in an announcement about the toy drive earlier this month.

Families may be called in anonymously, though the department will need names and ages of kids along with a phone number and address for each family.

This drive is designed to put presents under the tree for local children under the age of 18 and families that participated last year may not participate again this year.

Families which sign up through other organizations will also not be eligible for this program.

To nominate a family please call the office 319-385-1450 during regular business hours.

Additionally, they will accept the public’s assistance as they collect new toy donations through Dec. 19.

“If you would like to donate a NEW, unwrapped toy please drop off at the Police Department at any time,” a post to their social media directs. “There is a box right inside the lobby door. We also except monetary donations for our toy drive, which can be left at the business office which is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.”

The police department will then distribute the toys to families Dec. 21.

“We will be working with the Fellowship Cup to make sure all families receive what they need,” Murray’s announcement stated. “Toys for Tots will be assisting the drive as well. There are several other businesses and groups in the city that help as well.”

“If we have extra gifts then we will let others come the following day to pick out gifts,” the announcement states. “Find us on Facebook for updates.”

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com