The St. Thomas Aquinas Parish hosted its 26th annual toy drive at West Farms on Sunday.

The FDNY joined in on the fun, bringing Santa on a big red truck and his Engine 45 elves. 

Event organizer Maria Garcia said this tradition continues to grow bigger every year. She said thanks to donations from Engine 45, Cohens Hospital, and other churches, over 500 toys were distributed to kids in the community.

Garcia said they encourage families from nearby shelters and low-income neighborhoods to come and have their kids pick out a toy or two. She said buying gifts is a luxury not everyone has access to, therefore events like this help put a big smile on kids' faces. 

She encourages others to give back, be generous, and share when possible.