Forget Santa. This year it was the Grinch that was especially generous in giving out toys as part of the annual Firefighters and Friends toy drive Dec. 14 at Patrick Henry Elementary School.

“We gave away over 450 toys and $750 in gift cards to families in the West End of the city,” said Firefighters and Friends founder and former City Councilman Willie Bailey. “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 the Grinch spread holiday cheer, including members of the Psi Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

“This is our third year working with Firefighters and Friends,” said fraternity representative Dennis Craig. “It’s a great event and we love to give back to the community. We do our small part and seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces lights up my world.”

Sponsors for the event include: Five Guys (Sam); Chadwick’s Restaurant; John Taylor; Duncan and Susan Blair; Union Street Public House Restaurant (Bruce); David Millard; Mr. and Mrs. Cabral; Alexandria City Parks & Recreation Department; Psi Nu Chapter Of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Hilco Redevelopment Partners (HRP); Firefighters and Friends to the Rescue; Alexandria Police Department; Alexandria Sheriff’s Office.

Bailey said that this year was particularly hard on families.

“Many families mentioned that with inflation it would be a tough holiday so the giveaway really helps,” Bailey said. “A huge thank you to our sponsors. This would not be possible without their support.” 

Added Craig, “There’s a reason we like coming to this. We get to directly impact these children, particularly around the holidays. For a lot of these families, it is a tough time so just being able to do our small part means the world to all of us.”

Deputy Sheriff Kelly Allen and the Grinch pose for a photo with children at the Firefighters and Friends toy drive Dec. 14 at Patrick Henry Elementary School.