West Newton ‘Toy Express’ Event Introduces Kids to First Responders in the Community

Last Updated on Monday, 30 December 2024 00:54

On Sunday, December 22, 2024 a ‘Toy Express’ event was held at the West Newton Lion’s Club. The event started at 11:00AM and included a free lunch (Pizza, drink and cookie), toys for the kids, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

A free lunch for guests was served, and toys were passed out to the children.

The Collinsburg Volunteer Fire Company Held a ‘Breakfast with Santa’ event on Saturday, Dec. 21.

Pictured are members of the West Newton Volunteer Fire Company, their families and guests.

Event attendees received a free lunch, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

First Responders Children’s Foundation helps first responders make connections with children in their communities through their nationwide ‘Toy Express’ program, which delivers toys to children during the holidays. Distributed by firefighters, police officers, EMTs, paramedics and hospitals, the toys bring holiday cheer to first responder children as well as children in first responder communities.

West Newton Mayor Mary Popovich used funds from a First Responders Grant for the event. This is the fourth year in a row that mayor Popovich has applied for the grant and has been successful. Mayor Popovich worked with Yough Elementary School to identify children in need and they were invited to attend.

“My goal was to have police, fire, and EMS personnel interact with the kids to encourage them at a young age to carry on this life-saving and much-needed first responder service in the future,” said Popovich.

The members of West Newton Volunteer Fire Company, Station 82, Rostraver/West Newton Emergency Services Crew, and West Newton Police Officer Mike Stefko handed out treats, food and gifts provided by sponsors and the First Responders Children's Foundation distribution of toys.

In conjunction with this event, Collinsburg Volunteer Fire Company, Station 103, handed out half of the toys provided for those present at their Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 21, 2024 at their Collinsburg Fire Station.

Turkeytown Vol. Fire Company also received some toys to distribute to their members who have small children.

A special thanks to the sponsors that made this event happen: West Newton Lions Club, West Newton Giant Eagle, Mayor Mary Popovich, and First Responders Children's Foundation, Ronnalee Matthews and Shirley Fisher for making the pizzas.