Firefighters-4-Kids

Philosophy

On the Firefighters-4-Kids website, it states, "Our goal remains the same each year, to serve as many children as possible until we run out of toys or time." The overarching goal is to make a difference in the lives of children ages 0-12 years with toys for the holiday season.

How to Take Part

Worthington Fire & EMS participates in the the annual Firefighters-4-Kids toy drive that is sponsored by WCMH-TV. Franklin County fire stations serve as drop-off points for those wanting to contribute toys (or funds to purchase toys) during the Christmas season. On one date (FOR 2023, THIS IS DECEMBER 9 FROM 9AM-3PM) there is a coordinated drive-through where people can pull their vehicles into participating firehouses (including the Worthington fire station at 6500 North High Street) and drop off or have their toys offloaded by on and off-duty fire personnel.  

Monetary donations can be taken to any CME Federal Credit Union or Franklin County fire station. All checks should be made out to "Firefighters-4-Kids".

Beginnings

The Firefighters-4-Kids program began in 1977 after Columbus firefighter Mike Mullins responded on an emergency call to a home with young children and noticed they had nothing for Christmas. He worked with a handful of other firefighters in the basement of his home. At first, the toys were often "used" or new toys that had been purchased and donated by other Columbus firefighters. As the need grew and more people became involved, the program was able to expand and assist more children. In 2019, toys were provided to 18,978 children among 5,322 families. The organization has a strong volunteer community and relies on it for its success. 

At no time has anyone that is part of the program received a salary. 

For More Information

https://www.nbc4i.com/ff4k/

https://www.firefighters4kids.com/