Lombard Fire Department accepting donations for annual toy drive and parade

Beginning Nov. 26, the Lombard Fire Department will have several drop-off locations throughout the village where residents and community members can donate items for the department’s annual toy drive.

There will be drop-off bins at Fire Station 1, 50 E. St. Charles Road, Fire Station 2, 2020 S. Highland Ave., Lombard Jewel and Schroeder’s Ace Hardware. The fire department will also cooperate with the District 44 schools to collect donations.

New, unwrapped toys will be accepted along with baby supplies like formula and diapers. All items collected will benefit the Teen Parent Connection, The Outreach House and the Lombard/Villa Park Food Pantry.

On Dec. 8, the fire department will hold a toy parade down Main Street and spectators are invited to make last-minute donations directly to the firefighters in the parade.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m., a procession of fire vehicles will travel from Main Street and St. Charles Road south to Glenbard East High School. After that, the parade will continue to Yorktown, near Carson’s Pirie Scott where the donations will be unloaded.

“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 everyone deserves,” said Josh Hayes, firefighter/paramedic and event organizer. “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.”

Cash donations will also be accepted at either fire station and anyone with questions can call the fire department at (630) 620-5734.