Thanks to the generosity of donors, Plymouth Community United Way (PCUW) was able to brighten the holidays of low-income families in Canton, Plymouth and Western Wayne County with gifts of food, toys and warm winter items.
The stuffed animals, toy trucks, nonperishable items, hats and gloves were donated by local residents, businesses, service clubs, and schools during drives and special events such as the annual Teddy Bear Toss. Together with the Plymouth Whalers, PCUW netted 1,274 teddy bears when fans threw stuffed animals onto the ice at the event in Compuware Arena Dec. 1.
A joint effort by the Society of Plastic Engineers and Michigan Association of United Ways produced 15,000 toy trucks, 304 of which went to PCUW in time for gift giving.
Food drives by Smith Elementary, Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center, Federal Mogul, Comcast, AAA, C.L. Finlan & Son, Tower International, at&t, and other local businesses helped replenish dwindling shelves of local food pantries including The Salvation Army-Plymouth Corps and St. Mary's Outreach Center in Wayne.
The winter months are especially difficult for low-income and homeless families and individuals. PCUW's annual Hats for the Homeless provided hats, scarves, gloves, socks, and mittens to keep them warm. So far, 2,457 purchased and handmade items have been donated by the Kiwanis Club of Colonial Plymouth, students and staff at Dodson Elementary, All Saints Catholic School, Iron Mountain Information Management, PCEP National Honor Society, Plymouth Community Council on Aging, and members of the community.
PCUW is still accepting hats, scarves and gloves as well as food donations. To help, call (734) 453-6879.
