The Michigan State Police's Grand Rapids post will host its annual Stuff a Blue Goose event Saturday, Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Whitehall Walmart.
Troopers will be on site collecting new, unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army.
MSP is once again clearing out patrol cars to make room for new toy and non-perishable food donations collected.
“Our department is built on tradition, and the Stuff a Blue Goose donation drive is a favorite,” said. Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, in a press release. “With tremendous community support, we are able to help make a difference in the communities we serve. Our hope is the toys and food we collect make the holiday season a little brighter for everyone.”
The Stuff a Blue Goose events, which get their name from the nickname for the department’s patrol vehicle – the Blue Goose - got its start during the holiday season in 2009 when a trooper at the former White Pigeon post learned there was a growing need in his community. Members at the post had purchased items for families in the past but expanded the effort that year to include three posts and encourage residents to Stuff a Blue Goose for Christmas. The community response provided enough donations to stuff 10 patrol cars.
Now in its 16th year, in 2025, there are more than 30 Stuff a Blue Goose events happening across the state. Items collected stay in the local area and are distributed to area charities who then then give them to families in need.
In 2024, thanks to the kindness of Michigan residents, troopers collected more than 12,000 toys, 4,000 pounds of non-perishable food and $50,000 to support families in need.
