This year, the department will be collecting diapers and baby wipes for Life Resources of Northern Michigan. The organization helps new or expecting parents.
Big Rapids police hosting diaper drive for Life Resources
Part of the department's annual Season of Giving
Remington Hernandez
BIG RAPIDS — Police serve their community each day. In Big Rapids, officers plan to do even more during the holidays as they host their fifth annual Season of Giving gift drive.
The gift drive was launched by the Big Rapids Police Department in 2020. With the help of department members, residents, local businesses and organizations, more than 1,000 gifts have been donated to children in need.
"It's just a good way for us to give back to the community," community relations officer William Sell said. "I feel like we get so much from them."
Sell had the idea after he went to give the organization blankets around six months ago.
"I was impressed by their facility and the things they do for people," he said. "It was something that everyone liked when I suggested it."
Anna Holsworth, the Center Director for Life Resources of Big Rapids, said they are grateful for the effort.
"With all of your support, we can help build up the lives of those around us," she said.
Life Resources also offers free ultrasounds, free lab pregnancy tests and free options consultations, plus a wide variety of classes to help educate parents about pregnancy and parenting children from birth to 5 years old. By attending the classes, parents can earn credits to purchase items such as cribs, car seats, diapers, formula, wipes and clothing in the Life Resources store.
According to the department, the classes include tips for understanding the different cries of a baby, handling a 2-year-old who has a meltdown, helping teenagers and managing money. An education-based mentor program is also offered for men, including tips just for dads and an anger management curriculum.
This year’s collection drive runs through Dec. 20.
Sell said you can drop off new packages of diapers and baby wipes at the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, 435 North Michigan Ave. between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The donations are placed under the Christmas tree in the lobby.
On Friday, Dec. 13, officers will also be at the Yellow Window Café, 708 Maple St., from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. to accept donations.
Sell said efforts like the Season of Giving make officers feel great.
"We do see a lot of struggling families and this is a good place that they can go to get resources that they need," he said.
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