The Long Beach “Spark of Love” Toy Drive has a rich history of generosity and community spirit.  It all began around 1955 when LBFD Firefighter Murray Cohn started collecting toys for needy kids.  Dipping into his own pocket, his labor of love and generosity took root and grew to other surrounding stations, thus providing for even more kids.  After Cohn’s retirement, Captain Jim Salisbury took over, followed by Captain Bob Caldon.  Each worked in the “Head Elf” position for over 20 years.

 

In 1992, a cooperative decision was made to develop a southern California regional toy drive.  Known as “Spark of Love,” local area fire departments teamed with ABC Channel 7 for financial backing, supplies, and media coverage.  I started as a volunteer in 2000, and now I lead the efforts, with a growing and dedicated staff of elves.

 

Over 60 years later, the LBFD continues to carry on this annual tradition of gifting others.  Through the combined generosity of Long Beach businesses and residents, each year the LBFD “Spark of Love” Toy Drive is able to provide gifts to approximately 400 families and over 20 different youth-based community groups.  I believe this builds goodwill within our community and provides kids with positive role models.

Teachers from the LBUSD and LBFD Firefighters identify and recommend needy families throughout the year, as they see hardships in the areas they serve.  Toys are collected throughout December at various city events, parties, from local businesses, and residents who drop the toys off at our fire stations.  The program runs as a result of numerous volunteer hours put forth by our LBFD firefighters and members of the community.  Deliveries are then made to families and community organizations during the holiday season, culminating in our CODE 3 Delivery Day where we make rounds all through the city with Santa in his fire engine sleigh.

 

It’s heartwarming to see how this initiative has grown over the years and continues to bring joy to so many children and families in the Long Beach community.