Beginning November 30, Avondale firefighters will be collecting new toys and clothing for children in need this holiday season. Donations will be distributed to the Lions Club and the Agua Fria Food Bank, and then will be given to several adopted families throughout the community.

Avondale firefighters are requesting that the public drop off new, unwrapped toys and clothing November 30 through December 10 at Avondale Fire Station 172 (1825 N. 107 Ave) or Avondale City Hall (11465 W. Civic Center Drive), during the hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Avondale firefighters will also be in front of Kohl's Department Store in Avondale, located on the northeast corner of at McDowell and Dysart Road, on the following weekend dates --- December 5 & 6, and December 12 & 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"Each year, dozens of children who would otherwise have gone without toys for the holidays, had presents to open, thanks to the generous donations from people in the community," said Gary Siler, a firefighter with Avondale Fire-Rescue, who is helping to organize this year's holiday toy/clothing drive. "We are hoping for a tremendous response from the public this year as well."

For more information, please contact Avondale Fire-Rescue at 623.333.6000