The Madison Police Department kicked off its annual Food & Toy Drive beginning on Nov. 19 at Stop & Shop and Robert’s Food Center. For those who missed the opportunity to donate, the department is still collecting frozen turkeys and non-perishable food items as well as laundry soap, personal hygiene items, and baby diapers at the Madison Police Department, 9 Campus Drive 24 hours a day between now and Dec. 20.

The collected toys will first be distributed to Madison families in need between Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 19 and 20. The remaining toys being transported to the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital to benefit the Toy Closet Program on Thursday, Dec. 22. The Toy Closet Program was established by WTNH News Anchor Ann Nyberg to benefit children receiving care at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. The Toy Closet provides the patient and/or their siblings with joy and comfort during their recovery at the hospital.

As Christmas approaches, Madison police officers and staff will deliver frozen turkeys to the Madison Surf Club for inclusion into the Madison Food Bank’s holiday food baskets distributed to Madison residents in need.

The remaining food and frozen turkeys will be donated to other area food banks and soup kitchens.