Firefighters bring Christmas spirit to underprivileged Calgary kids

Firefighters brought the Christmas spirit to thousands ofCalgary children on Sunday afternoon with their 50th annual Children's Christmas Party.

The tradition dates back more than five decades to when firefighters in the city used to fix up broken toys for families at Christmas, Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth told CBC News.

Brady Tattersall retired from firefighting 17 years ago, after spending 33 years with the department. He was present for the first Christmas party in 1967and has volunteered every year since.

"I used to drive a toy truck and we delivered the presents right to people's houses," he said.

"It makes you feel good that you can help somebody else."

This year was a far cry from that first year, with over 4,200 people in attendance.

"It speaks to the economy, it's not the greatest right now. But good for them for putting on this event for everybody. It means quite a bit," said Ken, one of the parents in attendance, who only gave his first name.

Firefighters pay for the party themselves, raising $50,000 each year, along with donations from companies and the public.

The nearly 1,900 familieswere invited by the Salvation Army, Calgary's two school boards and local agencies.

Attendees were treated to ahamburger lunch, a dog show and other live entertainment, a visit from Santa Claus, and gifts for all children under 12.

JamieBlayney,of theCalgary Firefighters Toy Association, toldCBCNewsthat 200 members volunteered this year, serving up over 5,000 hamburgers and 8,000 bottles of pop to attendees.

Fire Chief SteveDongworthsaid that the celebration isn't just for the families it helps the firefighters feel good, too.

"We're often visiting with people on the worst day of their lives. To be here and to be having fun with the community, that is tremendous," Dongworth said.

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