Aubuchon Strong

Cape firefighters are preparing for their annual toy distribution for special needs children, an event Cape Coral Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management Services has held for nearly 20 years, according to public education assistant David Webster.

Webster said firefighters, a.k.a. Cape Fire Department “elves,” are in the process of purchasing and wrapping presents for the families of children who suffer health disabilities such as cancer, autism, juvenile diabetes and Down syndrome.

“We’ve had a breakfast (for the families) in past years, but this year...we want to focus (funding) on buying toys for the children,” said Webster.

Cape Coral Walmart, located at 1619 Del Prado Blvd S., is one of the top funding contributors of the toy distribution, according to Webster. Webster said the Fire Department is thankful to Walmart as well as to the other organizations who helped fund this year’s distribution, including the Burnt Store Marina, South Shore Homeowner’s Association and residents of the Sandoval community in Cape Coral.

“This program could not exist without them,” said Webster.

Walmart store manager Steve Durham said that Walmart did not wish to disclose a dollar figure regarding the amount of funds given for the distribution, but Webster called the amount substantial.

“It isn’t about the money, it’s about helping people,” said Durham. “We just like to help out however we can.”

Walmart has been a large contributor to the event in years past as well, said Webster.

Donna Kondor, who has been a manager at Walmart for 10 years, has been heavily involved with the Fire Department’s toy distribution to special needs children in the past, according to Webster. He described Kondor as Walmart’s “driving force of community outreach programs.”

The distribution event is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 22, and Sunday, Dec. 23, and will involve the use of city fire trucks.

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