Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) and Crossing the Gap partnered to support families across Claiborne County, Tennessee, and Middlesboro, Kentucky, through a community toy drive that benefited hundreds of children.
The initiative provided gifts to approximately 350 children and raised $1,600 in monetary donations, organizers said. Donations were used to help meet the needs of children and families in the region.
The effort was made possible through collaboration between LMU, Crossing the Gap, and numerous community partners who contributed toys, financial support, and volunteer assistance.
“We’re thankful for the community support that made this possible,” said Tim Goins with Crossing the Gap. “This partnership allowed us to reach a large number of children and families who needed extra support.”
Organizers also recognized the Helping Mamas group in Knoxville for donating a substantial number of toys to the drive.
Participating and supporting businesses included Hearthside Bank locations in Middlesboro, Harrogate, and Tazewell; DeRoyal; Homesteader; Gondolier; Commercial Bank; and Middlesboro Tractor Supply. Lincoln Memorial University’s Harrogate and Knoxville locations also served as collection and support sites.
“This project reflects LMU’s ongoing commitment to serving the region through partnerships that address real community needs,” said Breanna Newhart who coordinated the toy drive through LMU's Office of the President.
The toy drive is part of a broader collaboration between LMU and Crossing the Gap focused on community outreach and family support.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@LMUnet.edu.
