ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – This December, State Police posts throughout Michigan are collecting donations to ensure everyone has a happy holiday season.
On Friday, MSP Gladstone troopers were stained in Escanaba at Elmer’s County Market and Walmart for the annual Stuff a Blue Goose campaign.
“We’re collecting non-perishable food, toys, and cash,” said Trooper Josiah Povich. “The food will be donated to the Salvation Army, the cash gets split between the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul, and then the toys are going to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program.”
The campaign typically raises about $10,000 worth of donations. Povich says when shoppers choose to “Stuff a Blue Goose,” they are helping people in their own communities.
“Everything stays here in Delta and Menominee Counties, so if you give today, you’re giving to your neighbor,” he explained. “It covers from the adults to the kids, so anyone in need is able to benefit from this.”
For those who missed the event in their area, there are other ways to give.
“You can still donate either directly to one of the organizations,” Povich said. “Here at Elmer’s, they have an account for the Salvation Army, so if you’re here shopping you can have them put some money on the Salvation Army’s account if that’s what you want to do.”
With a few more Stuff a Blue Goose drives throughout the U.P. on Saturday, December 16, Povich says it is a great opportunity to help those in need have a merry Christmas.
“The bills are high with heating and electricity and everything,” he said. “A lot of people come up short this time of year, so it’s nice to be able to help them kind of help them fill the gap and make ends meet, giving kids some toys and making sure people have enough food to eat.”
From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, the MSP Gladstone Post will host a Stuff a Blue Goose drive at “Lights in the Park” in Rapid River’s Masonville Township Park. The MSP Calumet Post will host Stuff a Blue Goose events from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Pat’s Foods in Calumet and L’Anse. Click here for more information.
