Farmington Park Hosts Giant Inflatable Duck for a Good Cause

Farmington Park Hosts Giant Inflatable Duck for a Good Cause

Here in Farmington, a giant inflatable duck has made itself at home in Shiawassee Park, turning heads and raising eyebrows. This isn’t your average bath toy; boasting six stories height and weighing in at a whopping 15 tons. The owner proudly describes it as the “world’s largest duck“.

The duck isn’t just about the spectacle, it’s here for a good cause. This week, a local social service agency, known as CARES, teamed up with the owner of the massive rubber bird to host a unique and entertaining fund-raiser.

In a twist on the traditional charity run, CARES organized a rubber ducky race in the Rouge River adjacent to the park. On Wednesday, the riverside was filled with eager spectators as approximately 8,000 miniature rubber ducks were released into the water.

The giant inflatable duck served as both an unusual mascot and an eyecatching centerpiece for the event, drawing the attention of locals and passersby alike.

CARES is an established organization that currently needs around $14,000 a month to meet its food distribution commitments. The group partners with a regional food bank and provides assistance to about 750 families in Farmington, Farmington Hills, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Redford Township, Southfield and West Bloomfield Township.

Besides managing the food pantry, CARES also operates a small grocery store on the grounds of a former Catholic church right here in Farmington.

As of now, the final fundraising total for the rubber duck race has not been confirmed. Nonetheless, this dazzling event undoubtedly raised not just funds, but also the spirits of our community, reminding us all of the power of collaboration and creativity in supporting a crucial cause that benefits us all.