Sometimes even Santa’s sleigh isn’t big enough.

Patrol cars and rescue trucks helped pick up piles of toys last week, as local police and fire led a toy drive guaranteed to make sure children and families in need have plenty of presents to unwrap this holiday season.

For the 14^th year in a row, the Johnston Association of Firefighters, Local 950, and Local 307 of the Johnston Brotherhood of Police Officers spearheaded a town-wide campaign to collect an impressive amount of contributions for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.

The initiative provides brand new toys and books to children in need at Christmas time and beyond.  In addition to donating to Toys for Tots, local firefighters and police – working with the town – also help identify families in need who would benefit from donations this time of year.

Firefighter Christopher Delfino, a member of the union’s local executive board, was overseeing much of the evening’s activity, as piles of games, dolls, stuffed animals and more were crammed into emergency vehicles.

“It’s important to give back to the community…and all kids need toys at Christmas time,” he said.

In keeping with tradition, much of the town pitched in, making the night a festive one.  The event was held inside and outside Strings Restaurant where Town Council President Robert Russo sponsored a hot buffet open to all toy donators.  Inside the restaurant, Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr., members of the Town Council, and other officials mingled with local friends and families, while outside, the pile of toys continued to grow and grow.

A man in a red velvet suit who sported a long curly white beard, identified himself as “Santa’s helper,” while he helped collect the contributions.

Former Mayor Joseph Polisena, father of the current mayor, said it’s a tradition he loves.  “This is what Johnston is about,” he said.

Paul Giroux, retired from the fire department since 2015, comes back just about every se still showed up with toy and “to help my brothers give this holiday season.  It’s the best event ever,” he said.

Mayor Polisena thanked the police and fire departments for “their consistent generosity, both on and off the job. The success of yet another toy drive goes to show the commitment and excellence both police and fire have towards their jobs and the residents of our great community. 

“I wanted to also thank everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to bring a donation in support of the cause,” he said. “This toy drive was a representation of the selflessness and caring character of Johnston and its residents. 

“A sincere thank you to all who came out to support the cause. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!”