Bradenton Police Launch Annual Fill The Truck Toy Drive with First Donation from Jess Jewelers
The holiday spirit is already underway at the Bradenton Police Department as preparations begin for the annual Fill The Truck Toy Drive, now less than a month away. This week, BPD received its first official donation — a box filled with gifts from longtime community partner Jess Jewelers — marking a strong kickoff to one of the agency’s most cherished seasonal traditions.
The toy drive supports children and teens in Bradenton who may otherwise go without presents during the holidays. Each year, residents, businesses, and civic organizations come together to fill BPD’s collection truck with new, unwrapped gifts that are later distributed to local families.
This year’s main drop-off event will take place Saturday, December 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bradenton Police Department headquarters located at 100 10th Street West. Community members can drive up and hand off donations directly to officers and volunteers on site.
Those who can’t attend the event will still have several ways to contribute. Visitors may bring new, unwrapped toys to the police department lobby during regular business hours once the Fill The Truck collection bin is in place. Supporters can also participate by shopping BPD’s online Amazon gift list, allowing packages to be shipped directly to headquarters for added convenience.
With the first donation already delivered and enthusiasm building, BPD officials say they are hopeful this year’s toy drive will bring joy to even more families across the community.
