First responders from various counties came together on Saturday to donate thousands of toys to hospitalized children. This annual event, organized by Plymouth Community Ambulance Association, showcases the spirit of unity and giving during the holiday season. The volunteers filled boxes and bags with a variety of toys, ensuring that every child would have something to open on Christmas.

"First Responders Unite to Spread Holiday Cheer"

Bringing Joy to Hospitalized Kids

The event brings together first responders from Philadelphia and its suburbs. They pack ambulances and fire trucks with toys to support children spending the holidays away from home. JR Pascua, an EMT, emphasizes the importance of this different way of serving the community. "Love all the smiling faces. We get to interact with the community. We also get to interact with the other squads in the area," he says.Volunteers work hard to ensure that each box and bag is filled with toys that will bring a smile to a child's face. From Barbie's to basketballs, there is a wide variety of toys to choose from.

In Honor of a Special Son

Plymouth Community Ambulance Association Chief Thomas Trojansky started this event in honor of his son who spent time in the NICU at Bryn Mawr Hospital. The toys will go to children at Bryn Mawr Hospital and St. Christophers Hospital, bringing them some holiday cheer. "We bring well over five, six thousand presents to the different hospitals that we go to. It’s just amazing. it’s a wonderful event," Trojansky says.Over the years, the event has grown in both size and participation. There are now visits from Santa and live music, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Benefits of a Unified Effort

With so many agencies involved, there is an added benefit. It allows all the first responders to get together on a happy day and focus on bringing joy. "It’s a day that they know they’re going to go into work and they’re going to celebrate and have a great time and bring a smile, not only to themselves and go home with a smile without seeing any tragedy like they’re used to seeing, but they’re going to bring a smile to a child’s face in a hospital," Trojansky explains.These first responders, including JR Pascua and Christine Williams, volunteer for this worthy cause. It is one of Christine's favorite days of the year. Their dedication and hard work make this event possible.