Spark of Love works in conjunction with businesses, residents and several other charitable organizations to both give and receive toys and donations to needy kids throughout Long Beach. Each year they provide toys for about 400 families and more than 20 different community groups.
Teachers in the Long Beach Unified School District identify special need families throughout the year. Firefighters also see hardships in the areas they serve and can recommend families. Toys are collected at various city events, parties, local businesses, and fire station drop-off areas. Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) firefighters, lifeguards, ambassadors, and honoraries donate hours of their time to the program.
Deliveries are made to families and community organizations throughout the month of December, culminating in a Santa-accompanied delivery day with rounds all throughout the city. Donations should be new, unwrapped toys, sports equipment, school supplies or gift cards, and can be dropped off at select local businesses, Long Beach City Hall or any local area fire station or CVS Pharmacy. Spark of Love also accepts monetary donations. Checks should be made out to Friends of Long Beach Firefighters, Spark of Love.
For more information, please contact the LBFD Community Services Division at (562) 570-2519. All donations are tax deductible.
