Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- The 10th annual Officer Doug Barney Memorial Toy Drive collected thousands of toys on Saturday.
- Celeb Works donated $6,000-$7,000 worth of toys, the largest single donation in the event's history.
- Voice actor Jess Harnell has also long supported the event, enhancing its community impact.
SALT LAKE CITY — Thousands of toys piled up inside the Gateway in Salt Lake City. However, these toys weren't for sale.
The 10th annual Officer Doug Barney Memorial Toy Drive instead gathered the toys to donate them to children who might need some extra Christmas cheer.
Unified police officer Doug Barney was tragically killed in the line of duty in January 2016. Today, his legacy lives on through an event that transforms heartbreak into hope, collecting toys for kids who might otherwise go without this Christmas.
Organizer Farris Gerard, a longtime friend of Barney, says the outpouring of support would have made him proud.
"Doug loved kids," Gerard said. "And we try to think of a way to remember him every year."
This year's toy drive shattered previous records. Donations piled high, some even loaded into wagons. From basketballs and Barbies to bikes, the giving spirit was everywhere.
One major contributor? Celeb Works, which donated between $6,000 and $7,000 worth of toys, the largest single donation in the event's history.
When the toy drive began 10 years ago, organizers collected just 36 toys. Today, thanks to community support and celebrity involvement, the numbers have skyrocketed.
Voice actor Jess Harnell, known for roles in "Animaniacs," "Transformers," and "Rick and Morty," has been a driving force behind the event since year two. The actor heard about the toy drive and offered to attend to help bring in additional donations, free of charge.
"The second year, my friend Jess Harnell … he heard about it and he said, 'Hey, bro, do you want me to come? I'll come in. I'll come in for free, and we'll sign autographs, and do selfies, and collect toys for kids,'" said Gerard.
Harnell says Utah holds a special place in his heart.
"I have met a higher quality of really nice people in Utah than I have anywhere in the world," Harnell said.
All donated gifts will be delivered to local organizations and schools on Monday, just in time to make the holidays brighter for hundreds of children.
Contributing: Joe Wirthlin
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