Connecticut first responders take part in Shelton holiday toy drive
First responders from Shelton, Derby, Ansonia and Seymour spent the morning packing presents for TEAM Toys 4 Kids – a nonprofit human services agency that helps communities in need of resources, or in this case some holiday joy.
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The parade of sirens cruising through Shelton on Saturday afternoon made for a very special holiday delivery.
First responders from Shelton, Derby, Ansonia and Seymour spent the morning packing presents for TEAM Toys 4 Kids – a nonprofit human services agency that helps communities in need of resources, or in this case some holiday joy.
“TEAM has this incredible effort that goes across the entire valley,” said Steve Schwartz, from the Echo Hose Ambulance, “We’re just honored to be a part of it year after year.”
“I’m guessing we have over 3,000 toys here,” said Lilly McKenzie, from TEAM. “It beats our goal. It makes sure that we can serve every child that comes to us.”
All of the toys are headed to the Echo Hose Ambulance training facility, where a makeshift toy store is in place.
“Parents can come and they can pick out the toys for their children easily, it’s all very well organized,” said Carol Pendagast, co-chair of TEAM. “There’s so much over there, plus what we’re adding today with our biker friends, and Echo and all the other first responders in the valley…it brings tears to my eyes.”
The items are also completely free for interested families.
Workers and volunteers will continue to pack up toys for Naugatuck Valley.
“My heart is full, I get tears in my eyes seeing all those sirens, every town in this community coming together,” said McKenzie. “It makes me think that there is some good in this world."
If you are interested in volunteering or donating to TEAM, more information is available on their website.
