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- calendar_today November 3, 2026
Remembering Daniel Cook Through Community Giving
Nearly 13 years after the tragic 2013 school bus crash in Kuna, Idaho, the memory of 11-year-old Daniel Cook lives on through an annual toy drive organized by his family. Daniel lost his life when a school bus collided with a dump truck at a Kuna intersection, an accident that also injured four other children. In response to the community's outpouring of support during their time of loss, Daniel's family continues to give back to the children of Kuna.
The Tragedy That Sparked a Tradition
Robin Birch and Rob Cook, Daniel’s parents, recall the heartbreak and the help they received from residents of Kuna during their darkest days. "It was a tragic, horrible day, and Kuna stepped up for our family. They were there for us," said Daniel's mother, Robin Birch. The pain of loss has not faded, but the family's gratitude has grown into a lasting commitment to honor Daniel by uplifting other children in their community.
Moments That Endure
Rob Cook shared the significance of a heartfelt note that was left at the intersection where the crash occurred, written by a child Daniel had befriended on the school bus. The note recounted how Daniel had shown kindness to peers who were being picked on, offering them a seat beside him. "Daniel taught those around him that two seconds of kindness can change a life," said Cook, highlighting the impact his son had on others in his short life.
Annual Toy Drive Supports Kuna Kids
Each year, on the anniversary of the crash, Daniel’s family hosts a toy drive in his honor. The event collects new unwrapped toys, clothes, and monetary donations, all of which go directly to help children in Kuna schools. "It just still amazes me today how at the toy drive we have people come up and talk to us about Daniel and how they remember him, and it really helps this time of year," said Birch.
Event Details and Ongoing Legacy
This year’s toy drive is scheduled for December 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Ridley’s parking lot in Kuna. The family welcomes contributions of new toys, clothing, or monetary support to benefit local children during the holiday season. The event not only helps those in need but also ensures that Daniel Cook’s legacy of kindness and compassion continues to be remembered by the community that rallied around his family.
How to Support and Participate
Community members who wish to contribute can bring their donations directly to this year’s toy drive location. The annual effort stands as a testament to Daniel Cook’s memory and his family’s dedication to honoring him through acts of generosity. As Rob Cook expressed, "One of the greatest fears of parents who lose a child is that their child will be forgotten, and we know he won’t be."
Source: kivitv.com.
