Hiram – On a sunny Saturday recently, folks gathered in Hiram to support local charities and build community. For the seventh year in a row, the Hiram Police Department hosted a collection event to fill a police cruiser with food to benefit local human and animal organizations. In addition, several pet adoption agencies were on hand to give attendees the opportunity to bring home a new furry family member.
“There was not a great amount of food donated this year for the ‘Fill A Cruiser’ food drive,” Hiram Village Police Chief Brian Gregory explained. “However, the 4C’s pantry was very grateful.” Chief Gregory shared that the department plans to hold another food drive in the coming months to help replenish the pantry. According to 4Cs food pantry volunteer Roger Hurd, the summer months are the leanest for the food pantry, since donations are typically lowest.
There were two pet organizations at the annual event, the Chief shared. “People Care Pet Pantry and Rose’s Rescue joined us, with one adoption pending as a result of Saturday’s event.” In related news, the department’s fundraising for a K-9 unit has garnered around $3,000 from local businesses and residents. For more information, or to make a donation to the K-9 fund, contact the chief or stop by the station.
For the second year, the day’s activities also included a community garage sale, which was a resounding success, as there were 16 vendor spots filled. Booth fees supported Hiram Village Parks. “The chief was fabulous in doing the organizing of the overall event. It is remarkable to see the community come together to support making our home a better place to live for families and pets!” marveled Jo Walsh-Cobb from the Hiram Village Park Committee.
“We had a lot of people on Saturday,” Walsh-Cobb shared, “and we made nearly $300. We want to thank everyone that participated and supported Hiram Village Parks.” According to Walsh-Cobb, the money raised will go towards the purchase of new park signage, picnic tables, and benches for the village’s parks.
In addition, the Park Committee is looking for volunteers to build an information kiosk. For more information, contact the committee through the Hiram Village Parks Facebook page.
