Still time to give this holiday season

The Maricopa Fire Department, with the help of local community organizations and businesses, have collected a trailer full of toys for the Share the Hope Toy Drive; however, there are still a few days to go before the toys are distributed at 11 a.m. on Dec. 23 in Rotary Park.

MFD is still accepting new toy donations at the fire station on John Wayne Parkway until Dec. 22.

“What a beautiful outpouring of kindness,” said fire department spokesperson Joni Ashton, “not only from this community, but from surrounding businesses and cities as well.”

Ashton said the event is a success thus far with community organizers like Rusty Akers, Community of Hope Church; Terri Kingery, Maricopa Chamber of Commerce and Ceylan Gentilella, Desert Sun Performing Arts, rallying residents to make this happen.

She asks that residents keep needy children in mind when shopping these last few days.

“We could use a bunch more toys,” said Ashton.

Members of the Maricopa Fire Department display the toys collected for the Share the Hope Toy Drive. There are still a couple of days left to make new toy donations at Fire Station 571. (Submitted photo)

Ashton asked that those who wish to donate a new toy outside of regular business hours call (520) 568-3333, ext. 1100, or stop by fire station 571 at 44624 W. Garvey Ave.

“We are really appreciative of the outpouring of love and support from the community in helping give someone a Christmas they wouldn’t have otherwise,” Ashton said.