NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Toys for Tots foundation and local emergency service departments have teamed up to accumulate toy donations this Wednesday, during a holiday celebration at Walmart on Curran Highway.

"There will be hot chocolate, candy, and fun activities for the children," said event coordinator Mary Ann King, during a phone conversation.

Off-duty emergency service personnel have volunteered to participate in this charity event, during which they will collect toy donations and load them in to emergency service vehicles.

Police Officer Al Zoito and his K-9 officer Chuck are also expected to make an appearance during the event and greet community members, an email from King stated.

The charity event, which provides less fortunate children in Western Massachusetts with toys this holiday season, is scheduled to take place from noon until 7 p.m.

"Initially it was just the police station, but then they asked the ambulance department, and then the Fire Department joined in. There will be fire trucks, ambulances, and the police are even bringing their SRT [special response team] vehicle they use on roll outs," said King.

Toy donations from individuals unable to attend the event are being accepted at the police station on Summer Street. All toys that are being donated must be in original packaged material and not gift-wrapped.

The ultimate success of this program depends on the support of the local community and the generosity of the people who donate toys, the email stated.  

A member of the North Adams Police Department and former marine, Jonathan Boudreau, has developed the framework for this event, according to King. The Toys for Tots foundation exists as a non-profit charity and is directed by the commander of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.

Applications for toys can be made through the local Salvation Army and Berkshire Community Action Council. Foundation organizers will work with those organizations to conduct a review process of all applicants. Organizations that would like to distribute toys should sign up on the Toys for Tots website.

Families found to be most in need of the donated toys will be chosen to receive them at a later date. After all toys have been collected, they will be sorted by age and gender, then delivered to families with the help from local groups and community agencies.

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