Lombard Fire Department Annual Toy Drive, Parade Set

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LOMBARD, Illinois—The Lombard Fire Department's 12th annual toy drive and parade are set to begin soon after Thanksgiving.

Beginning November 26, collection bins will be in place at various drop off locations to include the Lombard Village Hall, Fire Station 1 (50 E. St. Charles Road), Fire Station 2 (2020 S. Highland Avenue), the Lombard Jewel on Main Street and Schroeder's Ace Hardware. The Fire Department is also partnering with District 44 schools to collect items in the schools as well.

Items to be collected include new toys (unwrapped) as well as baby supplies such as formula and diapers. Items collected will benefit the Teen Parent Connection, The Outreach House and the Lombard/Villa Park Food Pantry.

The annual Fire Department toy parade will be held on Saturday, December 8 for the last minute collection of items. Fire vehicles and firefighters will begin the parade at Main & St. Charles Road and proceed to Glenbard East High School, beginning at

10:30 a.m. Firefighters and volunteers will collect toys along the parade route on the west side of the street only as far as Glenbard East High School. After that, the parade will continue on to Yorktown, where the toys will be unloaded on the upper level near Carson's.

"I am really excited to again be a part of such a great event that began years ago to help those in need experience the joy of the holidays, something that everyone deserves," said Joshua Hayes, Lombard Firefighter/Paramedic who is organizing the toy drive and parade. "Despite tough times for all, each year it is great to see that people continue to generously give to the Lombard Fire Department Toy Drive. Due to the support of both the leadership of the Fire Department and the hard work of many of our members, the event continues to be a great success," he added. "Thanks goes out to all those who are involved in the event by way of giving, planning and to the charities who distribute the gifts to the families and children in need."

Cash donations are also being accepted and may be dropped off at either Fire Station. Questions may be directed to (630) 620-5734.