Chief Danielle Haynes and the Big Rapids Police Department will host their sixth annual Season of Giving gift drive this winter.

The department will partner with the WISE domestic violence shelter to bring comfort and support to individuals and families during the holiday season. This will help provide essential toys, clothing and household supplies for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and sex trafficking served by WISE.

“WISE does incredible work, offering advocacy, safety options and vital support services,” Big Rapids DPS said in a release. “They are dedicated to empowering individuals and families through respect and equality, and strengthening our community through awareness, prevention and education.

The Season of Giving launched in 2020 and has helped donate more than 1,000 gifts to children in need. Items that will be accepted as donations include toys, games, coloring books, twin bedding, pillows, throw blankets, bath towels and washcloths, toddler clothes and pajamas, children’s shoes and boots, winter accessories like gloves and hats, period products, diapers and wipes, baby wash and powder, toiletries, specialty hair products, and household items like tissues and cleaning supplies.

The drive will begin Monday, Dec. 1, and will last until Thursday, Dec. 18. Participants can drop off their items at the Department of Public Safety building anytime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. There will also be a special drop-off event at Belle’s Coffee House on Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

_{Release information courtesy of the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety.}