Lombard Toy Drive ends with parade

The Lombard Fire Department's 17th annual Toy Drive kicks off Monday, Nov. 27, and will end with a Toy Parade on Main Street, from St. Charles Road to Wilson Avenue, on Saturday, Dec. 9.

Residents are encouraged to bring unopened toys and items to Lombard fire stations and the village hall for donation.

Firefighters also will collect toys from residents along Main Street during the Dec. 9 Toy Parade and bring them to Yorktown Shopping Center for sorting.

Beginning Nov. 27, toy drive collection bins will be available in four locations: the village hall, 255 E. Wilson; Fire Station 45, 50 E. St. Charles Road; Fire Station 44, 2020 S. Highland Ave.; and Schroeder's Ace Hardware, 837 Westmore/Meyers Road.

Items requested include new, unwrapped toys and baby supplies such as formula and diapers. Items collected will benefit the Teen Parent Connection, First Things First and the Lombard/Villa Park Food Pantry.

Schools in Lombard Elementary District 44 and Villa Park Elementary District 45 also will collect items.

Cash donations also are being accepted and may be dropped off at either Lombard fire station.

"This is our 17th year of collecting toys and items that help to make the season a little brighter for our residents and neighbors," firefighter and paramedic Ben Speck said.

"It's so inspiring to see this village come together for their neighbors who might need a helping hand. That's what makes Lombard so special. And it's our honor to be able bring these families a little extra joy during the holidays."

Residents are invited to attend the Toy Parade at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9. The fire department, along with volunteers, including Cub Scouts from Lombard Pack 42, will leave Fire Station 45 at 50 E. St. Charles, at 10:15 a.m. and proceed south on Main Street to Glenbard East High School.

Residents may line up along southbound Main Street to donate gifts, up to Glenbard East High School. Donations will then be brought to Yorktown Shopping Center for sorting.

For more information, visit www.villageoflombard.org/toyparade.