Lakeland Fire Department's Annual Toy Drive Underway

LAKELAND, FL — All seven Lakeland fire stations have once again begun accepting new, unwrapped toys to make the holidays of area children a little brighter.

The department's annual toy drive kicked off Thursday and runs through Dec. 14. Toys are also being accepted at the Lakeland Fire Administration Building.

"The toy drive will benefit the Children's Home Society of Greater Lakeland and the Dream Center of Lakeland who will distribute the collected gifts to Lakeland's children in need," the agency's Janel Vasallo explained.

She said this is the seventh year for the event. Past toy drives have been considered very successful in raising donations from the community.

"Out of the many events our department sponsors and participates, this is one we all look forward to every year," Lakeland Fire Chief Doug Riley said. "The holidays are a time to reflect on our blessings and to give back to those in need."

Riley said the toy drive touches hundreds of less fortunate children.

"This annual toy drive helps hundreds of children in Lakeland by allowing them to enjoy the holidays with a toy someone provided specially for them," he said.

In addition to the fire stations, collection boxes have also been placed at the Children's Home Society and the Lakeland Dream Center.

For more information visit the fire department website or call 863-834-8200.