Lexington, Kentucky, November 18, 2025
The University of Kentucky Police Department has kicked off its ninth annual ‘Cram the Cruiser’ toy drive to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in need. Community members can donate toys at UKPD headquarters or during the UK–Tennessee Tech football game. All collected items will benefit young patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital, with a parade scheduled to deliver the donations in December. This initiative honors the late Jonathan Ard and receives community support from his family and 3M Company.
Lexington, Kentucky: University of Kentucky Police Department Launches 9th Annual “Cram the Cruiser” Toy Drive
The University of Kentucky Police Department (UKPD) has officially started its ninth annual “Cram the Cruiser” toy drive, encouraging community members to donate new, unwrapped toys for children in need. Donations will be accepted at the UKPD headquarters, located at 152 Transcript Avenue, until December 10, 2025. Additionally, donations can be made during the UK–Tennessee Tech football game on November 15 at Gate 4.
All items collected will be donated to young patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital. A list detailing acceptable items by age, which includes toys and books for children of all ages, can be found on the hospital’s website. Monetary donations are also welcome through the provided link.
UK Police Chief Joe Monroe highlighted the importance of the toy drive, emphasizing that each toy collected brings joy to a child while extending the services of UKPD beyond campus safety. He acknowledged the contributions of students, staff, and community partners who support this initiative yearly. Monroe also mentioned the upcoming “Parade of Toys”, set to take place on December 11, 2025, at 11 a.m.. This parade will start at UKPD headquarters and proceed through campus to deliver the collected donations directly to Golisano Children’s Hospital. Community members who wish to join can register through the provided link.
This year, community support is provided by the family of Jonathan Ard and 3M Company of Cynthiana, Kentucky. Ard, a former Green Beret who served two tours in Iraq, passed away in 2016. His family and 3M employees participate in the toy drive in his memory and collaborate with UKPD to deliver the donations to the hospital.
For further details, contact Mandi Banahan at 859-218-2338 or [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the “Cram the Cruiser” toy drive?
The “Cram the Cruiser” toy drive is an annual initiative by the University of Kentucky Police Department to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in need, benefiting young patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital.
How can I donate to the toy drive?
Donations can be dropped off at UKPD’s headquarters, located at 152 Transcript Avenue, Lexington, Kentucky, until December 10, 2025. Additionally, donations will be collected during the UK–Tennessee Tech football game on November 15 at Gate 4.
What types of items are accepted for donation?
Acceptable items include new, unwrapped toys and books for children of all ages. A detailed list of acceptable items by age is available on Golisano Children’s Hospital’s website.
Can I make a monetary donation?
Yes, monetary donations can be made directly through the provided link on Golisano Children’s Hospital’s website.
What is the “Parade of Toys”?
The “Parade of Toys” is an event where UKPD delivers the collected donations to Golisano Children’s Hospital. This year’s parade is scheduled for December 11, 2025, at 11 a.m., starting at UKPD headquarters and traveling through campus to the hospital. Community members interested in participating can register through the provided link.
Key Features of the “Cram the Cruiser” Toy Drive
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Donation Period | Now through December 10, 2025 |
| Donation Locations | UKPD headquarters at 152 Transcript Avenue, Lexington, Kentucky; UK–Tennessee Tech football game on November 15 at Gate 4 |
| Beneficiary | Young patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital |
| Acceptable Items | New, unwrapped toys and books for children of all ages; detailed list available on Golisano Children’s Hospital’s website |
| Monetary Donations | Accepted directly through the provided link on Golisano Children’s Hospital’s website |
| Parade of Toys | Scheduled for December 11, 2025, at 11 a.m.; starts at UKPD headquarters and travels through campus to Golisano Children’s Hospital; community members can register to participate |
| Community Partners | Family of Jonathan Ard and 3M Company of Cynthiana, Kentucky |
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