City of Maricopa Fire Department's Ride for Toys. Photo by Adam Wolfe

The annual Maricopa Fire Department “Ride for Toys” toy drive brought hundreds of Maricopa residents to Pacana Park to donate toys, enjoy fire truck rides and frolic in the snow.

MFD was able to gather hundreds of toys for local children in need during the four hour event. The event also allowed local children the rare chance to play in snow as the fire department brought in a snow pile for the children (and adults) to enjoy.

“We have a chance to play in snow, hang out with some firefighters and meet the community,” MFD public information officer Brad Patassi said. “All the benefits and all the toys are going toward the local charities and local families in need.”

The toy drive lasted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pacana Park on Saturday, Dec. 12. The event also featured Santa Claus, modern and classic fire trucks, and the fire department’s “Sparky” Dalmatian mascot.

For anyone still looking to donate toys, feel free to stop by the F.O.R. Maricopa Food Bank or your local fire house.