ATLANTA — It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department is getting in on the fun.
This decades-old tradition was started by the first group of Black firefighters to integrate the Atlanta Fire Department.
“Outside of seeing them in an emergency we want to see them in a happier setting and just give," said Tyler Nelson of the Progressive Firefighters Association of Atlanta.
For 54 years, Station 16, a historic fire station on Joseph E. Boone Boulevard NW, has been holding a holiday party aimed at bridging the gap between first responders and the community they serve.
Mom Danielle Neptune said the annual giveback makes a difference.
“Helping out the community and seeing the kids. It’s a great impact, and it shows the kids someone cares for them," Neptune said.
The fire department is helping 400 children during the holiday party this year. Each child will get something to put under their Christmas tree.
“Car games, board games, toys, action figures, school supplies, bicycles and scooters," Nelson said.
Many other groups pitched in to help with the effort, including an Atlanta-based biker club called the Black Angels.
Biker Doc said his group helps out because they understand the importance of playtime.
“Sometimes people are going through bad things, and they can’t do for their children. We’re like big kids. We ride motorcycles. We like to play outside. We like toys, too!" Doc said.