Riverina Police District Detective Inspector Jill Gibson has been running a toy drive at every station she has been posted at for the past decade. Photo: Shri Gayathirie Rajen.
Santa’s helpers dressed in blue are set to help him bring joy to children again this year.
Wagga Wagga Police Station is organising its third annual toy drive to collect unopened toys and colouring items for local kids in need.
Riverina Police District Inspector for Community Engagement Jill Gibson said the toys would be given to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital’s emergency department (ED).
“They work tirelessly over the Christmas period, 24/7, just like us,” said Insp Gibson.
“No one wants to end up in hospital on Christmas Day, and having some toys here [at the hospital] hopefully for Christmas Day and into the future will be fantastic.”
Insp Gibson said community members who wished to donate toys or money could do so by popping down to the Wagga Police Station.
“We’re collecting donations of new toys, stimming devices, jigsaw puzzles, balls (basketball, soccer balls and footballs),” said Insp Gibson. “We’re asking for new toys for babies through to teenagers.
“It’s great for the kids that attend there (ED), and great for the staff there to help them over Christmas and in the following months.
“Last year, our donations assisted them for a number of months at a time. That’s amazing.
“We’re also donating to other local initiatives and charities as well.”
Insp Gibson said the Wagga community was incredibly supportive of the toy drive each year.
“They have been absolutely amazing … people are actually seeking us and contacting us early asking if we’re running it again,” she said.
“South Wagga Probus was amazing; they brought in a heap of toys just before the beginning of December, so they started us off.”
Insp Gibson has been involved in a toy drive at every station she has been posted at for the past decade.
Members of the community who wish to donate toys or money can do so by visiting the Wagga Police Station until Christmas Eve.
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