NILES, Mich. -- The Michigan State Police Niles Post is working with toy stores and other stores across southwestern Michigan to collect toys, gift cards, toiletries, and food for those less fortunate in a now 10-year-old event dubbed "Stuff a Blue Goose," named after the MSP patrol vehicle, or "Blue Goose".

"Blue Geese" will be stationed outside Walmart at 2107 S. 11th Street in Niles and Meijer at 5019 Red Arrow Highway in Stevensville on Saturday, with donations accepted from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

The goal behind "Stuff a Blue Goose" is to gather as many items as possible and then give them to Mosaic Wonderland Toy Store, Cass County Toys for Tots, Redbud Area Ministries, and Helping Hands of Cass County, where the donations will help families in need.

The Mosaic Wonderland Toy Store is looking for toys for children of all ages and gift cards valued at $50 or less. Cass County Toys for Tots is also looking for new toys.

Redbud Area Ministries and Helping Hands of Cass County are looking for nonperishable food, like canned meats, cereal, cooking oil, and pancake mix and syrup. They are also in need of shampoo, conditioner, dish soap, laundry detergent, and toothpaste.

Donations are also accepted at the MSP Niles Post.