Elementary students throughout the Copiague School District had an early start to the holiday season thanks to special gifts provided by the Promise of Hope Foundation, the family of fallen New York City Police Department Detective Jonathan Diller and Toys for Tots. On Dec. 10 and 11, the organizations arranged a toy distribution in the district’s four elementary buildings, allowing each student to select a new, unwrapped toy to bring home.  

“On behalf of everyone in the Copiague School District, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to these incredible organizations that generously donated toys for our students,” said Copiague School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Bannon. “The kindness shown to our students is truly appreciated.”

The initiative highlights a partnership between Detective Diller’s widow Stephanie, Promise of Hope and Toys for Tots. “The Promise of Hope Foundation is dedicated to giving back, honoring those who serve, and uplifting our communities,” said co-founder Michael VanDenburg. “Through this event, we not only celebrate Jonathan’s legacy but also offer students a chance to experience the joy and significance of generosity.”

The foundation, joined by members of the Diller family, will visit more than eight school districts during the next two weeks to distribute toys, books and other holiday gifts to students. The goal is to bring joy and holiday cheer to children in underserved communities while also honoring the memory of Detective Diller. “I am so thankful to have the opportunity to put a smile on thousands of kids’ faces,” Ms. Diller said. “I am eager to pay it forward in Jonathan’s name because he was the most generous person I knew. It truly only takes one act of kindness to change someone’s life.”

The Promise of Hope Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives of children and families in underserved communities through toy distribution, backpack distribution and other community-based initiatives. Additionally, Promise of Hope has covered the funeral expenses for more than 50 families who have tragically lost a child, as well as Line of Duty officer funerals from the NYPD and Nassau and Suffolk police departments since 2019.