A pile of donations sits in the lobby of WSU’s Public Safety office. (Photo by Peter Currier)
WESTFIELD- The holidays will be a bit more merry for children in local shelters thanks to Westfield State University’s annual Stuff a Cruiser gift drive.
The drive was Dec. 4, however, donations are still being accepted until Dec. 20.
The 19th annual Stuff a Cruiser drive was sponsored by the WSU public safety department to benefit the Springfield YWCA’s New Beginnings Shelter. The New Beginnings Shelter is for victims of domestic violence to have a safe space during times of crisis. The organization gives women job training, counseling, childcare, and health services.
Even though the main Stuff a Cruiser event is over, WSU Police Capt. Michael Foyle said that they are still accepting donations.
“The donations for the main drive have already been picked up by the YWCA, but we will still be accepting donations until Dec. 20,” said Foyle.
A pile of toys and gifts filled the lobby of the WSU Public Safety Headquarters Friday. Foyle said it will remain there until the 20th, and that anyone is welcome to add to the pile until then.
Foyle said that the drive is largely organized by Lt. Bernie St. George.
In addition to toys and gifts, the university is also accepting donations of new clothing, hats, scarves, gloves, toiletries, and other supplies for adult women who utilize the New Beginnings Shelter.
WSU Communications Specialist Troy Watkins said that the annual drive typically raises approximately $4,500 in donations of toys, supplies, and cash.
