Mankowski Holiday Party

For the past 28 years retired Police Officer Gayelord Mankowski has thrown a Christmas party for kids in the Okemos community to ensure underprivileged kids can experience a joyous holiday season. What started out as a small gathering of a few kids from a local trailer park funded totally from Ofc. Mankowski's own pocket has turned into a full fledged annual party! Last year over 200 children attended. In years past we have actually run out of presents half way through the gathering and had to go to the store and buy more!

At the Mankowski Holiday Party for Kids in Need a pizza lunch is provided for the kids and their parents. There is also lots of pop, cookies, and candy (and, consequentially, lots of hyper kids!!!). Santa always makes an appearance on the fire truck as well. Each child gets a chance to tell Santa what they want for Christmas. Then their names are drawn from a hat and each child can pick a present!

Due to the generous donations of several local businesses and other fundraising efforts the party has grown each year. Ofc. Mankowski has literally made sure that thousands of local kids over the past 28 years have known they are loved and valued through this party. Not only that but it helps build a relationship between the local police and fire with kids in the area.

Please know that 100% of all contributions (minus the gofundme fees) will go to this worthy cause. The party will take place on December 15. Please consider giving to ensure kids from your neighborhood have a wonderful Christmas season!!! You can make a difference in your community!

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