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Duluth Fire Department purchases over $6,200 in toys for children in need

[Duluth, MN] For 20 years, the Duluth Fire Department has collected money from its members to support the Salvation Army's Toyland Express. This year, the Department collected over $6,200 in donations to complete local children's wish lists. This morning, members of the Department gathered at Target to shop for toys and other items that children are hoping to get for Christmas this year.

In 2001, the Duluth Police Department challenged the Duluth Fire Department to see who could raise more funds for the toy drive. Firefighter Matt Swanson lead the Fire Department's efforts to accept the challenge. While the competition with the Police Department only lasted one year, the Duluth Fire Department has continued to raise money to shop for Duluth children ever since.

"For many of us, this is our favorite thing that we do all year," Duluth Fire Marshal Sandy McComb said. "Our active and retired members donate every year, and with that support, we raise more money for the cause than we did the year before. This is a terrific way for us to give back to the community and help make the upcoming holiday season a little more special."

The Fire Department would like to thank Target for its partnership and donation to purchase items for the Toyland Express.

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 *Pictures below