The Annual Michigan State Police Post 82 "Stuff the Blue Goose" is wrapping up Monday, Dec. 4 and they still need your help to make Christmas brighter and more joyful for those less fortunate in the area.
Rodenroth Motors, Fernelius Hyundai and Soo Motors in Sault Ste. Marie along with O'Connor's in Pickford all have a shiny blue MSP patrol car in their showrooms that need to be stuffed with unwrapped, new toys.
Trooper Michael Mariuzza, from MSP Post 82, says while there is a competitive nature to this event, all four dealerships have one goal in mind.
"This event is important because it collects toys and gifts for area children and families in need. All donations received also stay in the local area. It is great the area dealerships help participate with this event. We cannot thank them enough for giving up floor space in their showrooms for the patrol vehicles and their help collecting the toys and donations," Mariuzza said.
All toys donated will go directly to the Department of Health and Human Services and will be distributed locally. In previous years, DHS distributed 250-400 gifts collected from this event.
"Once all the toys and gifts are collected, we partner with Michigan DHHS who distributes the gifts. Erica Stempky compiles a list of children and families that would benefit from this program and has the gifts distributed to them. Erica does an incredible amount of behind the scenes work to make sure children and families who would benefit from this program are identified and receive these gifts," continued Mariuzza.
The toys will be hauled to the DHS Monday afternoon so there is still time to stop by any one of those four dealerships in Chippewa County through Monday morning. Mariuzza says the success of the event goes to the dealerships, DHS and, of course those who donate gifts.
