2017 marked the 25th year for the Spark of Love Toy Drive at the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD). Exceeding initial expectations, an astounding 100,000 toys were given to children throughout Los Angeles County in partnership with local non-profit organizations serving children.
This year’s campaign was launched with ABC7 (KABC-TV), Los Angeles County Sheriff’s, and the United States Marine Corps, in an all-day televised rally to fill six buses with toys.
To commemorate the milestone year, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors honored retired Captain Steve Valenzuela and ABC 7 on December 15. During his time working in the Public Information Office, Valenzuela was instrumental in creating the campaign and worked to develop unity among Southern California firefighters for the collection of toys.
LACoFD firefighters hosted special events with County Supervisors, the Departments of Children and Family Services, and Parks and Recreation, to distribute toys to children. On December 3, Fire Chief Daryl Osby and Supervisor Kathryn Barger welcomed foster youth and their families to the 18th Six Flags Magic Mountain Holiday Party, complete with a visit from Santa Claus and toys for the children.
LACoFD is proud to see the growth and continued success of the campaign that began 25 years ago with an idea from one of its own. The Department applauds firefighters from throughout Southern California who worked together in another successful year of bringing joy to children and teens during the holidays.