Benicia Firefighters Begin Annual Toys for Tots Campaign

The season for gift giving is upon us and Benicia firefighters are asking the community to help them collect toys for underprivileged children through the Toys for Tots program. 

“We are collecting new, unused, unwrapped toys for ages infant through late teen,” said firefighter Jason Fein.  “We’re especially in need of toys for the kids between the ages of 11 and 14.  Those are the toys we’re really short on.”

For community members who want to help but aren’t sure about the right gift, the firefighters have some suggestions.  “We typically see sporting goods or gift cards from Target and Old Navy or any other clothiers,” said Fein.  “Those are the types of gifts that age group tends to like.”

Santa Claus will be visiting the downtown Fire Station 11 on December 15 from 4-8 p.m. and firefighters are hoping families will bring Toys for Tots donations during his visit.

Soccer balls, footballs and basketballs are typical gifts that fill the collection barrels at the firehouse.  In past years the firefighters have also collected bicycles, bicycle helmets, skateboards razor scooters and baseball and softball equipment.

The campaign kicked off on Black Friday and will run until just before Christmas Day.  “The last we can accept gifts is December 23 at 5 p.m.,” said Fein.  “That will ensure they get wrapped and delivered by Christmas morning.”

The Benicia Community Action Council and the Napa-Solano AIDS Coalition distribute gifts collected by the firefighters.

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