2:08pm | With all gifts delivered and smiles on the faces of children across the city, the Long Beach Fire Department released these photos to thank the community for donating this holiday season. More than 500 children received gifts this year, and the LBFD wants to ensure the community that their donated gifts do reach the arms of thankful kids.
Since they receive so many gifts and face the monumental task of pairing each one with the perfect owner, the LBFD relies on some special helpers.
“Volunteer ‘elves’ work tirelessly at the warehouse to ensure that no request is left unanswered,” reads a blog on the LBFD website.
“It’s a very big job trying to sort through all the requests and match the right child with the right toy. Our elves pack up boxes and bags and deliver them to needy families and churches in the area that have asked for help.”
The blog thanks all those who helped make the holiday a special one for local children. Toys were delivered at several annual events at places like the Reef Restaurant and Aquarium of the Pacific. More than 25 organizations like Homes For Battered Women and the Boys & Girls Club received the gifts.
“In these tough economic times we have seen a dramatic surge in requests for toys,” it says. “This is where YOU can make a difference. No donation is too small. Every toy makes a difference in the life of a needy child. Please consider joining the cause next year by helping out in some way.”
