Santa himself was on hand to greet hundreds of families as part of the Firefighters and Friends to the Rescue toy drive distribution Dec. 16 at Samuel Tucker Elementary School.

“We gave away over 800 toys, bikes, and gift cards to families on the West End of the City,” said Willie Bailey, who founded the nonprofit 25 years ago. “This was a wonderful event that brought joy to the kids and took some financial pressure off of the families this holiday season.”

Volunteers were on hand to help families and children select toys as well as books provided by the nonprofit InspireLit.

Children enjoy playing with their new toys at the Firefighters and Friends toy distribution Dec. 16 at Samuel Tucker Elementary School. 

 

Sponsors for the event include: Five Guys (Sam Chamberlain); Chadwick’s Restaurant (Trae Lamond); John Taylor; Duncan and Susan Blair; Capital Youth Empowerment Program; Union Street Public House Restaurant (Bruce Witucki); David Millard; Mr. and Mrs. Cabral; InspireLit (Books); AWRF, Inc.; Energesco Solutions LLC; Psi Nu Chapter Of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Hilco Redevelopment Partners; Samuel Tucker Elementary School Staff; Firefighters and Friends to the Rescue; Alexandria Police Department; Mindy Lyle; and Wonderful Health & Fitness.

“Our sponsors and volunteers were having just as much fun as the children,” Bailey added. “A huge thank you to our sponsors. This would not be possible without their support.”