Calgary firefighters 57th toy drive gives back to thousands of kids in need

The Calgary Firefighter Toy Association’s (CFTA) 57th annual toy event Sunday delivered thousands of gifts to children in need.

Hundreds of firefighters and other volunteers were at the Telus Convention Centre, helping make the event possible for the kids.

The toy drive saw over 4,000 guests, with the CFTA saying it had over 3,000 gifts for children.

CFTA chair Mark Hagle told 660 NewsRadio the day is always emotional, saying he is hopeful families can walk away with an “amazing Christmas experience for the day.”

“It’s a pretty special day. If I don’t break down into tears at least half a dozen times throughout the day, it ain’t a good party,” he said.

The event has a storied history starting in 1967, but Hagle says it can be traced further back to World War II.

Calgary firefighter Howard Willaims started repairing toys in the basement of the fire hall to give to children coming out of the war and facing a bleak Christmas.

“This is what we’re all about, is to provide that Christmas for families that just need a hand during the holidays, and we just hope that we can keep doing this, and with the generosity of Calgarians we can,” he said.

The event relies on the efforts of hundreds of firefighters and community volunteers who come together to bring holiday joy to children

“It’s just a great event where we get a lot of families out and just an opportunity to give back to the community, and that’s what it’s all about,” said Calgary firefighter Zack McGeechren.

The event not only had presents for the kids but also fun activities, like face painting. Children picked out their favourite candies for their gingerbread houses.

But the one thing most of the kids couldn’t wait to get was their presents and visit Santa, and most knew exactly what they wanted for Christmas.

Hagle notes times are tough for many out there as donations were down a bit, but he says this year was a success and is thanking everyone who donated.

With files from Mark Strashok