North Raleigh Today

Raleigh Water employee Michael Carpenter spearheaded a two-month toy drive to support children affected by Hurricane Helene. The initiative garnered substantial backing from City of Raleigh employees and nearly two dozen organizations, leading to a successful collection of over 1,200 unwrapped gifts. These included 23 bikes, four tricycles with helmets, and an assortment of toys such as dolls, trucks, games, and books.

Carpenter expressed initial uncertainty about the toy drive's outcome due to his lack of experience in organizing such events. However, the community's generosity alleviated his concerns swiftly. "It's about reaching out to kids we may never meet, but who need a little extra cheer during challenging times," Carpenter remarked.

The distribution effort was supported by the Pantheon Project and the Marines. Together with coworker Jeff Clark, Carpenter ensured that toys reached children in remote and underserved areas of western North Carolina. The Marines planned an airdrop for December 13.

Carpenter conveyed deep gratitude for the widespread generosity that he believes will bring joy and a sense of magic to many children's holiday season.