KANSAS CITY, Mo. — State troopers from both Kansas and Missouri are asking for your help this holiday season to help children who won't have the chance to celebrate at home.
"Many of our troopers are parents, and seeing these kids in the hospital this time of year is devastating," said Cpl. Justin Ewing, of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. "This is our ability as parents, as fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, to bring some joy to these kids. But it is also a great opportunity for us as the law enforcement world to step into the people that we serve and be able to meet some of these needs, and to bridge that gap between the communities we serve [and] our own agency."
From now through Dec. 9, troopers are collecting new, unused toys for children of all ages for the annual Trooper Michael Newton Toy Drive.
Troopers have been handing out toys to children at KU Medical Center Pediatrics and the Ronald McDonald House for the past 22 years.
The toy drive was started as a way to honor fallen MSHP trooper Michael Newton, who died in the line of duty in 2003.
Newton was the 23rd member of MSHP to lose his life in the line of duty and was survived by his wife and two young sons.
"His family knew that he was a great influence in the community, and so this was just a chance to bring joy to the community through some of our most precious citizens, and that's our children," Ewing said.
Over the years, troopers estimate thousands of children have benefited from the toy drive.
You can take your new, unwrapped toy donations to the following locations:
Missouri State Highway Patrol — Troop A
504 S.E. Blue Pkwy
Lee’s Summit, Missouri, 64063
816-622-0800
Kansas Highway Patrol — Troop A
1220 S. Enterprise St.
Olathe, Kansas, 66061
913-782-8100
Murphy-Hoffman
11120 Tomahawk Creek Pkwy
Leawood, Kansas, 66211
888-642-8782
Pediatric Partners
7450 W. 135th St.
Overland Park, Kansas, 66223
913-888-4567
Pediatric Partners
2111 E. Kansas City Rd.
Olathe, Kansas, 66061
913-888-4567
Troopers want these donations to benefit children of all ages, so you can bring books, puzzles, Legos, electronic devices, games, etc.
The drive also has anAmazon Wish List.
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KSHB 41 anchor/reporter Daniela Leon covers transportation-related issues in Kansas City. Share your story idea with Daniela.
