Lexington, Ky. – Each December, the Lexington Fire Department steps beyond emergency response to bring holiday hope to local families. Through the department’s annual Toy Program, firefighters gather new, unwrapped toys and auction donations, then distribute the gifts to families in need.

How the program works

Captain Chris MacFarlane, director of the Toy Program, explains that the initiative begins with collection bins placed outside all 24 fire stations and at participating local businesses. Residents drop off new, unwrapped toys, which firefighters retrieve and store until the holiday giveaway.

Last year, the program served nearly 1,000 families, representing roughly 3,000 children. Families are invited to the fire stations on December 19 to select toys they feel their children will enjoy, turning the event into a community‑wide “toy store” experience.

Auction and chili cook‑off

In addition to toys, the program is organizing a holiday auction on December 6 at 2320 Palumbo Drive. Community members are asked to donate items such as University of Kentucky basketball tickets, signed basketballs, or other memorabilia. Every dollar raised from the auction will be used to purchase any toys the program still needs before the December 19 giveaway.

To add a friendly competitive spirit, all 24 fire stations will take part in a chili cook‑off, with the title of “chili king” awarded to the winning crew. The event highlights the camaraderie among firefighters while drawing additional attention to the charitable cause.

Why the effort matters

With many families juggling everyday necessities and monthly bills, the Toy Program helps relieve some of the financial pressure that the holiday season can bring. “It’s a blessing for us to be able to do that,” MacFarlane said, emphasizing the program’s role in supporting parents and children during a time that should be filled with joy.

Community members can contribute in three ways: donate a new, unwrapped toy, provide an auction item, or volunteer to help with collection, sorting, or event staffing. More information and donation guidelines are available at lfdfof.org/toy-program.

Looking ahead

The Toy Program has become a beloved Lexington tradition, reinforcing the city’s strong sense of family, faith, and volunteerism. By uniting firefighters, local businesses, and residents, the initiative exemplifies how a community can come together to ensure that every child has a present to open on Christmas morning.

Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.