By Matthew Holloway |

The Scottsdale Fire Department is now accepting unwrapped toys and gift cards at all SFD fire stations and headquarters. The collection of gifts for the annual toy drive will continue through Dec. 22nd.

Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon explained the decision to start the drive before Thanksgiving in a press release, stating, “Our partner agencies must meet the needs of families a little earlier this year, so we are opening our toy drive before Thanksgiving. These donations help make the holiday season a little brighter for many families. It is very much appreciated.”

In prior years, the drive has collected about 15,000 toys, serving over 1,000 families, according to City of Scottsdale posts on social media. The Scottsdale Fire Department more modestly estimates that roughly 10,000 gifts are collected each year, according to a department release.

Participating partner agencies include Vista del Camino, HonorHealth at Shea, Osborn and Thompson Peak, Family Promise, Arizona Helping Hands, the Arizona Burn Foundation, and Harvest Compassion Center.

This year, SFD is seeking donations for children ages 7-12 and 13-18; however, they add, “Gift cards are fantastic alternatives to selecting something specific.”

Members of the public wishing to donate to Scottsdale Fire can find their nearest location here.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.