SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – Getting a fresh set of wheels is a wish many kids in Seminole County have this holiday season. That’s why dozens of Seminole County firefighters and their families are assembling around 120 bikes for their 8th annual Toy Drive.
“It’s awesome knowing we’re helping out some kids and families that don’t have gifts or may not have as many,” said Lt. Tom Mirisola of the Seminole County Fire Department. “I have kids, so seeing them be happy and excited Christmas morning, now I know that other kids are going to feel that joy.”
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“When I was about 13 or 14, I didn’t realize we were struggling. But now that I’m doing well enough to provide for my children, I realize the struggles were there. Knowing that we can help alleviate a little bit of stress for someone during the holiday season—that’s what it’s all about,” Mirisola shared.
These bikes are in addition to over 1,000 other toys the department plans to distribute. Thanks to the Walmart Spark Good Local Grant, the firefighters were able to increase their efforts.
“When I applied for it, I was thinking $250, which could get us five or six bikes,” Mirisola said. “To my surprise, we got $1,500.”
The grant has allowed them to double the number of bikes they assembled last year. On Monday, all the toys collected and donated will be delivered to the Sharing Center in Longwood.
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