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Lyndhurst Police Foundation''s ''Christmas in July'' food drive collects food, money for those in need

Lyndhurst Police Foundation's Christmas in July Food Drive Brings Holiday Spirit to Summer, Aiding Those in Need

In the heart of Lyndhurst, Ohio, a unique summertime tradition is transforming the sweltering days of July into a season of giving, reminiscent of the winter holidays. The Lyndhurst Police Foundation's annual "Christmas in July" food drive has once again proven to be a beacon of community support, collecting essential food items and monetary donations to assist local families and individuals facing hardship. This year's event, held amid the backdrop of economic uncertainties and rising living costs, underscored the vital role that grassroots initiatives play in bridging gaps for the vulnerable. As residents and officers alike rolled up their sleeves to contribute, the drive not only amassed tangible resources but also fostered a sense of unity and compassion that resonates far beyond the collection bins.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Lyndhurst Police Foundation—a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the local police department and community welfare programs—aims to address food insecurity during a time when many might least expect it. Unlike traditional holiday drives that peak in December, this mid-year effort catches the community off guard in the best way possible, reminding everyone that need knows no season. Organizers emphasize that summer can be particularly challenging for families, with children out of school and missing out on free or reduced-price meals, and parents juggling higher utility bills from air conditioning or childcare costs. By framing the event as "Christmas in July," the foundation infuses a festive spirit into the proceedings, complete with decorations, holiday music, and even appearances by officers in Santa hats, making the act of giving both fun and approachable.

This year's food drive kicked off in early July, with collection points strategically placed throughout Lyndhurst to maximize participation. Key locations included the Lyndhurst Police Department headquarters, local grocery stores like Giant Eagle and Marc's, and community hubs such as the Lyndhurst Community Center. Volunteers from the foundation, alongside police officers who volunteered their off-duty time, manned these stations, greeting donors with smiles and stories of impact. The drive encouraged contributions of non-perishable food items—canned goods, pasta, rice, peanut butter, and cereal being among the most requested—as well as monetary donations that allow for flexible purchasing of fresh produce or specific needs. One innovative aspect was the integration of online donation portals, enabling supporters from beyond Lyndhurst to contribute via the foundation's website, expanding the reach in an increasingly digital world.

Participation was robust, with hundreds of residents turning out to drop off bags of groceries or write checks. Local businesses played a pivotal role, too; for instance, several area restaurants and shops offered incentives like discounts for customers who brought donations, turning everyday errands into opportunities for philanthropy. Schools in the South Euclid-Lyndhurst district got involved by hosting mini-drives among students and staff, teaching young people the value of community service. Even city officials, including Mayor Patrick Ward, made appearances to show their support, emphasizing how such events strengthen the fabric of Lyndhurst. "This isn't just about food; it's about showing our neighbors that they're not alone," Ward remarked during a kickoff event, highlighting the emotional support that accompanies the practical aid.

The foundation's efforts are rooted in a broader mission to enhance public safety and community well-being. Established over a decade ago, the Lyndhurst Police Foundation has funded equipment upgrades for officers, scholarship programs for youth, and various outreach initiatives. The Christmas in July drive, now in its fifth year, has grown from a modest collection effort into a major annual highlight. Past drives have distributed resources to local food pantries, such as the Hillcrest Meals on Wheels and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank affiliates, directly benefiting low-income families, seniors, and the homeless population in the region. In 2023, for example, the event collected over 2,000 pounds of food and raised nearly $5,000, which translated into meals for hundreds of households. This year, preliminary tallies suggest even greater success, with volunteers reporting overflowing bins and a surge in cash contributions amid heightened awareness of inflation's toll on grocery prices.

What makes this drive particularly poignant is the personal stories shared by those involved. Officer Maria Gonzalez, a longtime foundation volunteer, shared how her own family's struggles with food insecurity during her childhood inspired her involvement. "I remember what it's like to wonder where the next meal is coming from," she said. "Being able to give back through the police foundation feels like coming full circle." Donors echoed similar sentiments; one anonymous contributor, a single mother, dropped off a bag of canned soups and noted, "I've been on the receiving end before. Now that things are better, I want to pay it forward." These anecdotes illustrate the drive's ripple effect, creating a cycle of empathy and action that sustains the community year-round.

Beyond the immediate collections, the event serves as an educational platform. Workshops and informational booths at collection sites provided resources on topics like budgeting, accessing government assistance programs, and recognizing signs of food insecurity in neighbors. This holistic approach ensures that the drive isn't a one-off event but a catalyst for ongoing support. Partnerships with organizations like the Cuyahoga County Division of Children and Family Services further amplify the impact, directing donations to at-risk children and families. In a region where poverty rates hover around 15%—higher than the national average—such targeted efforts are crucial. The foundation's leaders, including President John Russo, stress the importance of collaboration: "We couldn't do this without the generosity of our community. Every can, every dollar makes a difference in someone's life."

As the drive wrapped up toward the end of July, the focus shifted to distribution. Volunteers sorted and packed donations, ensuring equitable allocation to partner agencies. Recipients, often identified through social services or self-referrals, receive not just food but also a message of hope. For many, this summer boost alleviates immediate pressures, allowing them to focus on long-term stability. Looking ahead, the foundation plans to build on this momentum with future events, potentially expanding to include back-to-school supply drives or winter coat collections. Russo hinted at ambitions to make Christmas in July a model for other suburbs in Greater Cleveland, sharing best practices to inspire similar initiatives.

In an era where headlines often highlight division, the Lyndhurst Police Foundation's Christmas in July food drive stands as a testament to the power of collective goodwill. It reminds us that charity isn't confined to December; it's a year-round commitment that can flourish even in the heat of summer. By collecting food and money for those in need, the event not only fills pantries but also hearts, reinforcing the bonds that make Lyndhurst a resilient and caring community. As one volunteer aptly put it, "This is what the holiday spirit is all about—giving when it's needed most, no matter the calendar." With continued support, drives like this will undoubtedly continue to make a profound difference, one donation at a time.

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Read the Full Cleveland.com Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland.com/community/2025/07/lyndhurst-police-foundations-christmas-in-july-food-drive-collects-food-money-for-those-in-need.html ]