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Harshman: Apache Junction Police Department toy drive seeking donations

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The annual Apache Junction Police Department toy drive could use a little assistance from the community this year.

In the past the AJPD has worked with the W Steven Martin 911 Toy Drive to supplement some of the toys for the identified children in our community.

According to fine folks at the 911 Toy Drive there has been a dramatic decrease in donations this year. In typical 2020 fashion there have been some challenges making it difficult for us get enough toys to meet the need. The health concerns from COVID-19 and the nationwide scrutiny of police are but a few of the contributing factors in the lack of supply.

AJPD has been doing the toy drive for more than 30 years and we continue in spite of the challenges. The toys we pass out are often the only toys these children will receive.

As your police department we see the AJPD toy drive as an opportunity to have a positive interaction with these kids and further build trust with some of the unfortunate families in our community. This is an incredible and longstanding tradition here in Apache Junction and we intend to keep it going.

If you would like to get behind this effort we are accepting donations of new items for children from newborn to 15 years old.

Some of the more popular items include; bikes, scooters, board games, deodorant/ body wash packs, make up, hair supplies such as blow dryers, curling irons, straighteners. Additionally the kids seem to enjoy art kits, skate boards, and remote control cars and trucks.

Please, no stuffed animals, clothing or donations of used items. We want these children to have the opportunity to receive something brand new.

We will be accepting donations at the Apache Junction Police Department, 1001 N. Idaho Road, up to Dec. 16. Together we can make 2020 a little happier for a child within our community. Thank you in advance for your continued outstanding support.

Editor’s note: Cpl. Marshall Harshman is Apache Junction Police Department’s community and media liaison officer.