The Troy Fire Department continues to collect toys for the Sugar Plum Shop at Children’s of Alabama. While the toy drive has been slow to kick off, firefighters remain faithful for the cause.

“Once everyone starts Christmas shopping, I believe they will think of us and donate to the cause,” said DJ Williams, Troy Firefighter EMT. “I was amazed by the support from the community last year. I would like to see the same efforts this year. I would like to try to double what we did last year because we had more time to collect than we did last year.”

The Sugar Plum Shop allows parents to be able to provide Christmas gifts for their children free of charge. The in-hospital toy store is a convenient way for parents to be able to shop for their children and give them a Christmas they would normally have outside of the hospital.

“We are trying to make it easier on the parents,” Williams said. “That way they can spend time with their children in the hospital without having to leave. We want to help provide a Christmas for them.”

The Sugar Plum Shop accepts many toys and items, but all items must be new for safety reason. The wish list includes arts and crafts supplies, infant/toddler items, teen items, items for all ages, electronics, gift cards, gift-wrapping supplies, toys, etc.

Some items are not accepted for safety reason such as candy or food items, toy weapons and yo-yos. A complete least of acceptable and unacceptable items can be found at http://foundation.childrensal.org/wishlist.

Both Troy Fire Department stations began accepting items on Nov. 10, and will continue to serve as drop-off locations until Wednesday, Dec. 16.

Williams said that if anyone has an issue dropping off the toys, he or she can call Fire Station 2 at 566-5943 to make arrangements for him to pick up the donation.

Williams will deliver all donations to Children’s of Alabama on Dec. 18.

“I hope that we collect so many toys that I have to rent a truck to get them all down there,” Williams said.