Hundreds of donated stuffed animals are now in the hands of young patients at John R. Oishei Children's Hospital.
Members of Buffalo Professional Firefighters Local 282 got into the holiday spirit by collecting the new toys and delivering them to children in the hospital Thursday. Seven-year-old Molly received a white fluffy teddy bear. Her mom, Melanie Sutherland says, with a full day of testing ahead it'll help relieve a stressful time for Molly.
"We just had the worst part of our testing. Now it's like waiting. So this was kind of nice thing for her to get a nice bear," Sutherland said.
During the drive - which wrapped up December 27 - about 200 toys were donated. Firefighter Otis Stephens helped hand them out at the hospital.
"It's what we should do. You know, holiday season, people are in need. At Local 282, we're always looking just to give back and come up with creative ways to give back. And what better way to celebrate the new Children's Hospital and Buffalo Fire Department Local 282 than something like this," Stephens said.
Local 282 President, Vincent Ventresca says, Buffalo firefighters strive to be involved in the community in more ways than just fighting fires.
