Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services is once again partnering with the Port Hope Fire Fighters Association (PHFFA), to officially host the launch the 2019 “Fill the Fire Truck” campaign this Saturday, November 30 at 11:30 a.m. at the Fire Administration Office/Station #1 (245 Ontario Street).

“The 2018 Christmas campaign was a huge success as a result of our partnership with the Port Hope Fire Fighters Association,” explains Fire Chief C. Ryan Edgar, Director of Fire and Emergency Services for the Municipality of Port Hope. “Together we were able to collect a full fire truck load of toys and gifts for so many children and families across the community and we are thrilled to participate in this important initiative again this season.”

For several years, the PHFFA has sponsored this holiday initiative, which has successfully collected hundreds of toys and gifts for local families, with generous donations from the community and the firefighting family. Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services Staff are so grateful of the community’s assistance during their Annual Toy and Gift Drive.

“The Association has been actively contributing to the Salvation Army Giving Tree for many years,” notes Mark Chard, a local firefighter and coordinator of the annual drive. “Each year, we hope to increase the number of gifts collected to ensure that we meet the needs of each deserving family in our community.”

New, unwrapped gifts for boys and girls up to 17 years old are being requested, including stuffed animals, dolls, movies, books, board games, sports equipment, blankets, arts and crafts. Those who are unsure of what to donate are welcome to donate gift cards, which are helpful in filling the gaps among age groups for which toys are needed.

There are several opportunities for the community to participate in the campaign this year. Residents can bring new, unwrapped gifts or toys to the following locations/events:

• Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services, Fire Administration Office/Station #1 (245 Ontario Street)

• Port Hope Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, November 30, 2019 (Walton and Queen Streets).

• Dreamer’s Café (corner of Walton and Queen Streets)

• The Chard Residence (76 Ward Street)

New unwrapped toys and gifts will be accepted until December 18, at which point the Salvation Army will collect all items for distribution to local families in need.

For more information about the Port Hope Fire Fighters Association’s Toy and Gift Drive, visit porthopefire.ca