By Indiana Pacers Sports & Entertainment—
MUNCIE, IN—As part of the 16th annual statewide Big Toy Giveaway, Pacers Sports & Entertainment and JAKKS Pacific Toys teamed up with the Muncie Police Department on Tuesday to provide toys to local families and children in need.
The toy distribution event took place Tuesday at Muncie Central High School and children enjoyed appearances by the Indiana Pacers mascot, Boomer, Indiana Fever mascot, Freddy Fever and the Pacemates.
“As a 44-year Pacers season ticket holder, I’m thrilled to see Pacers Sports & Entertainment and JAKKS Pacific bringing their Big Toy Giveaway to Muncie,” said Muncie Mayor Dan Ridenour. “Their commitment to spreading joy and supporting kids in our community is truly inspiring.”
“The Big Toy Giveaway reflects the ongoing commitment our department — and our community at large — has to supporting Muncie’s kids,” said Muncie Police Department Deputy Chief Melissa Criswell. “We’re proud to be part of it, and we’re grateful to the Family Resource Center and Pacers Sports & Entertainment for helping make this possible.”
Since its launch in 2009, the Big Toy Giveaway has been fueled by the generosity of Stephen Berman, founder and CEO of JAKKS Pacific Toys, and his long-standing friendship with Herb Simon, owner of Pacers Sports & Entertainment. The annual statewide effort has delivered hundreds of thousands of toys to Hoosier children through a network of more than 100 community partners.
“Stephen has brought joy to countless Hoosier children over the years, creating memories that last a lifetime,” Simon said. “His generosity and commitment to this program year after year continues to make an extraordinary impact.”
“This annual holiday tradition began with friendship and grew into something much bigger,” Berman said. “It’s an honor for JAKKS Pacific Toys to work alongside the Pacers Sports & Entertainment family to help bring holiday cheer to kids and families who need it most.”
This month, PS&E and JAKKS Pacific Toys are partnering with local nonprofits to distribute toys through a series of in-person events throughout the state bringing together local officials, Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever personalities, and other special guests. Toy giveaway events are also scheduled in Bloomington, Indianapolis, Knightstown, Noblesville, Plymouth and Vincennes.
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