EDISON — “The Grinch is quite merry these days” as he starts to help the Edison Police Department spread holiday cheer, according to Police Officer Keith Jackson.
“The Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes, as they say,” he said.
With much success last year with more than 1,000 toys collected, the department is bringing back the foul-mouthed Dr. Seuss character for a second year to help collect presents for the annual U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” drive.
Children of all ages can greet The Grinch and his police entourage at 7 p.m. Nov. 29 for the Edison Memorial Tree Lighting, 37 Christie St., in Menlo Park.
Joining them for holiday games and hot chocolate are McGruff the Crime Dog and straight from the Santa’s castle in the North Pole, Mrs. Claus.
The tree lighting ceremony at the Edison Memorial Tower will kick off a series of appearances dubbed “Whobilation of Heroes” events throughout Edison from 5-9 p.m. Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec.1, and noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 2.
“Everyone in Edison can be a holiday hero,” said Jackson, who asked parents and children to bring new, unwrapped toys for needy and hospitalized children.
Edison police are also accepting store-bought or homemade, unsealed holiday cards that will be mailed to United States military personnel serving abroad and far from their families during the holiday season.
For details about where and when The Grinch and his friends are making appearances, call the Edison Police Department at 732-248-7400 or email Jackson at [email protected].