BOISE, Idaho — The union for the Boise Fire Department is making sure families in need can put presents under the tree this Christmas.
"We spend a lot of time in our job as firefighters, going door to door, helping people," firefighter Alex Brockett said. "So, we have a unique eye into their life, and we can see how much people need help with various things."
Bose Firefighters Local 149's toy giveaway, which serves families in the Boise and Nampa school districts, kicked off Wednesday. Brockett said the number of referrals quadrupled this year from roughly 150 to 450.
"It's good that we can help out the community more, but also the fact that that many more people need help, just shows kind of where we're sitting right now," he said.
The union collected and bought the toys through its Community Assistance Fund. There are enough gifts for each kid to have three.
Mom-of-three Robyn Henderson is extremely grateful for the annual event.
"It's gonna' save my Christmas, actually," she said. "Right now, these times are really tough. This is how I'm getting to be able to put a smile on my kids face for Christmas."
Some parents go shopping solo. Others bring their kids. Brockett said he enjoys spreading as much cheer as possible to those who walk through the door.
"As soon as [kids] cross that threshold, they come in here, their eyes light up ... they just got these big grins. Their eyes are big," he said, "and that's what we want to see."
The toy giveaway is a two-day event. Brockett said they restocked the room after everyone left for the day Wednesday, so they are ready for the rest of the families.
He said few presents will remain afterward. Firefighters will drop those off at the Ronald McDonald House and St. Luke's.
People wanting to help the union give back to the community can donate money through its website. Profits from the union's merchandise sold at various events, like the Hyde Park Street Fair, also go toward the Community Assistance Fund.
The union helps families year-round. Earlier this December, firefighters also passed out gifts at St. Luke's Children's and the Ronald McDonald House.
"A program like this gives that little breath and just a little light in your life," Henderson said.