The holidays came early on Saturday as more than 600 children,, and their families made their way into Lincoln High School for Kids Wish Network’s “Project Toy Drop,” which delivered a truckload of toys, clothing, and educational games for at-risk youth in the city. A score of volunteers, including individuals from Van Dyke Public Schools and the Warren police and fire departments, helped make the day a success.

Project Toy Drop travels the country, allying with schools, community organizations, and the military to help those in need. The program also nurtures positive relationships between youth and city role models, including law enforcement.

The Golic family attended project Toy Drop with their family of seven that includes, (l-r): Anthony, Anthony (father), Nicholas, MeKynzie, Allyson, Nicole (mother), and James.

Nicole and Anthony Golic are parents to five children, including daughter and Lincoln High student MeKynzie, 16. They all attended the event and were impressed with the turnout.

“It’s amazing how many people came out to help the less fortunate,” said MeKynzie. “It makes the kids feel special to know that people care and what they’re going through.”

Added Anthony, 34: “[It’s rewarding] watching people get help who need it.”

Van Dyke Public Schools Superintendent, Piper Bognar, was pleased with the day’s outcome and its impact on her students and their families. “We are so thankful that our community could come together,” she said. “Everybody will leave here walking on air.”

The event included a proclamation awarded on behalf of the city by Mayor Jim Fouts to Kids Wish Network, as well as acknowledgement of Warren-based Central Transport for its longstanding and dedicated logistical efforts for Project Toy Drop initiatives across the country.

“The goal of Project Toy Drop is to provide miles of smiles to children who need it most,” said Don Tanner, spokesperson, Kids Wish Network. “Judging by the happy faces we see here today, we can proudly say, ‘mission accomplished.’

Click here to get more information on Project Toy Drop.

Visit www.kidswishnetwork.org to learn about all of our programs.

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Kids Wish Network has been making dreams come true for children since 1997. We are dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children experiencing life-altering situations. We started with the single purpose of granting wishes to children suffering from life-threatening conditions but have since created additional programs to benefit kids nationwide, including Hero of the Month, Project Toy Drop, Holiday of Hope Gift Banks, and A Child Forever Funeral Assistance.