Gallery: Vernon Firefighters Toy Drive Now 69 Years And Counting

VERNON, CT — For 69 years now, Vernon firefighters have provided toys to children during the holiday season, thanks to the donations of generous residents and the firefighters foundation.

This year, firefighters organized the toys for each age group on Sunday, and then on Monday night loaded bags for distribution. Some bags were delivered by fire truck, others by box truck.

Coordinator and Department Secretary Diane Carpenter has overseen the program for decades and has not ben shy about urging firefighters to fill bags. She even appointed Fire Police Capt. Chris Prue to check bags and send firefighters back for more toys if the bags were not full enough.

Here's a look at the the toy drive:

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