By Ramsey Sullivan Riverbend News
The Branford Volunteer Fire Department is asking for help from the community to ensure that families and children all receive Christmas gifts throughout these troubling times.
Many businesses in the Branford area are still feeling the after effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which means some families could struggle to buy Christmas gifts for their children. The Branford Volunteer Fire Department is holding a toy drive for the children and families in the community.
The fire department is asking for toy donations of new and unwrapped items for girls and boys of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. Specifically, they are asking for bicycles to be donated. Any bicycle that is new or like-new and in excellent condition can be donated.
Donation boxes have been set up at various businesses and locations in and around Branford. Many businesses are offering special deals in exchange for toy donations. The following locations are open for drop-off:
Town of Branford Town Hall
Dollar General Market
Hardee's of Branford
Suwannee River Ace Hardware
Badcock of Branford
Scaffs IGA
Capital City Bank
Just Teasing Salon
Main Street Station
Family Dollar
The Old General Store
Rabbits Barbershop
The Gathering Restaurant
Lafayette State Bank
Our Place Restaurant
Diva Daisies
Sandhill Graphics and More
Marlene's Beauty Shop
Branford Love and Care
Sisters Restaurant
Branford Dental Office
McDonald's of Branford
The deadline to donate is Sunday, Dec. 20. If you would like to donate a bicycle, contact Robert Yates through Facebook Messenger. If you need help giving gifts to your children, please call Robert Yates at (386) 935-3050, and leave a message with your name and number.