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Springfield officer’s annual toy drive aims to bring holiday cheer to 1,000 kids

Springfield officer’s annual toy drive aims to bring holiday cheer to 1,000 kids

Photo: Saga Communications/Doit From the Heart


Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Springfield Police Officer Lamar Moore and his non-profit organization, Doit From The Heart, are once again bringing joy to local families with their annual Christmas toy drive. This year, Moore has set an ambitious goal to collect enough toys for 1,000 children in need.

Anyone who wants to help can drop off new, unwrapped toys at the Salvation Army at 1600 E. Clear Lake Ave. in Springfield. Monetary donations are also accepted at doitfromtheheart.org. The toys will be handed out to families at the same location on Dec. 21, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Moore’s dedication to helping others extends beyond the holidays. Through Doit From The Heart, he organizes back-to-school supply drives, coordinates food distribution efforts, and provides assistance with utility bills for families facing financial struggles.

In addition, Moore devotes time to mentoring programs, fostering trust between residents and law enforcement, and building stronger connections within the community.

His passion for giving back is rooted in his own experiences. Growing up in Chicago’s Robert Taylor Homes, he witnessed the challenges of living in poverty. “It was a no-brainer,” he said, explaining that his background inspired him to become a police officer, help others, and establish his non-profit.

Moore is quick to credit the community for the success of his efforts, emphasizing that he couldn’t do it alone. “The generosity of donors and volunteers makes it all possible,” he said, expressing gratitude for those who support the kids and families served by Doit From The Heart.

More information on how to donate or to get involved can be found at doitfromtheheart.org or on Facebook.

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