CMPD’s annual toy giveaway extends mission to WNC

CHARLOTTE — Since 1974, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has delivered presents to families in need during the holiday season.

But this year, CMPD’s mission extends beyond Charlotte’s borders.

Volunteers kicked off toy deliveries for the 50th edition of the CMPD Explorers Christmas Project with a ceremony Thursday on South Boulevard. It was a culmination of a month of toy collecting at fire houses and local businesses across the Queen City.

This year, 600 families and 1,700 kids received gifts, like Mary Gary who needed gifts for her great-grandchildren.

“I don’t work, I’m on social security and I do need the help a little bit, so this is great,” Gary told Channel 9′s Eli Brand.

She said getting a visit directly from Chief Johnny Jennings made it even more special: “Oh, that was great. That was great!”

Scenes similar to Gary’s toy delivery won’t only be happening in CMPD’s jurisdiction though.

This time, toys were also collected to send to the families in western North Carolina who are in need, and still recovering from Helene.

“They’re still recovering and it’s going to be many years so it’s nice to always give back and always think about our communities a little bit further from Charlotte,” Ryan Botzenmayer, Christmas Project Coordinator, told Channel 9.

At toy drop-offs, people were asked to bring two toys this year instead of the typical one.

One toy will stay here in Charlotte, another goes out west.

All part of continuing to protect and serve, but in this season adding a new job – spreading joy.

“This is great what they’re doing, bringing me all these toys for the girls,” Gary said.

WATCH: Charlotte group delivers Christmas gifts to children in WNC impacted by Helene

‘Spread some joy’: Charlotte group delivers Christmas gifts to children in WNC impacted by Helene

©2024 Cox Media Group