#Bridgeport, CT – Dec. 9, 2013) — Cecalie Cooper just wanted to help during the holiday season.

“I wanted to make a difference in a child’s life this holiday season,” said Cooper, 25, a recent college graduate and daughter of Councilwoman Eneida Martinez-Walker. “It’s easy to caught up in the holidays and forget that there are children in our community who might not get presents.

“I wanted to try to do something about it.”

Cooper partnered with the Bridgeport Police Department in the effort. A collection box is located in the front lobby of Police Headquarters at 300 Congress St. and any toys collected will be distributed to families who lost all their possessions in a massive fire on Brooks Street in September. Any remaining toys will be distributed to children in the Charles F. Greene Homes apartment complex.

Cooper is hoping to collect new, unwrapped toys for both girls and boys ranging from newborn to 15 years old.

“I thought it was a outstanding idea and appreciate Cecalie’s initiative,” said Police Chief Joseph L. Gaudett Jr. “Bridgeport is a generous community and I hope the community will come to Police Headquarters with a gift knowing that they will help brighten a young person’s holiday.”

“I’m confident our Bridgeport Police officers, who work every day in this community, will step up as well.”

The toy drive will run though Dec. 20.