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October 04, 2023

Where Every Family Matters

Franklin Police 2021 Memorial Christmas Toy Drive

kristi and carterYou can leave unwrapped toys for children, ages 1-17, in the Franklin Police Headquarters lobby, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p/m/, between now and December 15.

On February 16, 2015, Kristi Clark and her 10-year-old son, Carter Oakley, were hit by a semi and killed after they got out of their car to help five people in an overturned SUV on an ice-covered I-65 in Franklin. Nearly five years later, Kristi’s dad, Brad Lewis, stays very much in touch with members of the Franklin Police Department. A bond brought about by tragedy will bring help to needy families this Christmas, in memory of two good Samaritans who died helping others in need.

Mr. Lewis, a skilled craftsman, has built 10-wooden toy boxes in his daughter & grandson’s honor and donated them to the Franklin Police Department. Now, Franklin Police Officers want to fill them with toys for needy Franklin families. “Kristi and Carter’s lives were cut short while they were helping others,” said Chief Deborah Faulkner. “It is our honor to help others in their memory.”

Citizens can drop off a new, unwrapped gift for children up to 17-years-old, Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. Monetary donations cannot be accepted.

About the Author

Michael Aldrich

Michael Aldrich is Nashville Parent's Managing Editor and a Middle Tennessee arts writer. He and his wife, Alison, are the proud parents of 4-year-old Ezra and baby Norah.