CAL FIRE/Riverside County Firefighters Kick Off 21st Annual Spark of Love Toy Drive

CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department, in cooperation with ABC and other Southern California fire departments, kicks off its 21st annual "Firefighter's Spark of Love Toy Drive." The toy drive will run through Dec. 20. CAL FIRE/Riverside County fire stations participate and collect toys donated by residents and other community programs to benefit those less fortunate. Due to the strains of a challenging economy in recent years, toy donations are significantly down as well. Those who wish to participate are asked to bring an unwrapped toy or sports equipment (footballs, basketballs, etc.) to the nearest Riverside County fire station. These toys are sorted by firefighters and disseminated throughout their communities by working with churches, schools and local non-profit community groups that have identified and screened families in need. "Over the years, I have watched the work of the community and our firefighters put a lot of smiles on kids' faces," said CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Chief John R. Hawkins. "It warms my heart to see everyone pitch in to make the holidays a little more special for some of our community's less fortunate and I am proud of their work." If you are looking for a great way to give back to your community, consider putting a spark of love in a child's heart by donating that special gift to your local Riverside County fire station.