A Michigan State Police vehicle is stuffed with presents destined for the Stuff a Blue Goose program. (Photo courtesy of MSP)

IRON MOUNTAIN — Michigan State Police are clearing out patrol cars to make room for new toys and non-perishable food donations collected during the annual Stuff a Blue Goose campaign.

The Iron Mountain Post is hosting an event from 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday at Walmart in Iron Mountain. Troopers will be on site collecting new, unwrapped toys to benefit Toys for Tots.

“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 MSP. “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, 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, more than 30 Stuff a Blue Goose events are scheduled to happen across the state.

Items collected stay in the local area and are distributed to area charities, who then give them to families in need.

In 2024, thanks to the kindness of the people in Michigan communities, troopers collected more than 12,000 toys, 4,000 pounds of non-perishable food and $50,000 to support families in need.