Franklin firefighters launch 19th annual toy and clothing drive

Franklin firefighters are collecting new toys, coats and clothing for local children in need through the department's 19th Annual Toy and Clothing Drive.

The Franklin Fire Department announced the drive on Monday, Nov. 9, according to a city news release. The effort has run every year since 2008, providing coats, clothing, shoes and toys to thousands of families across the community, the department said.

Residents can pick up a gift request card from a holiday fire hydrant display at any Franklin fire station, Franklin Fire headquarters or Macy's at CoolSprings Galleria. Each card lists a specific item a child needs. Residents buy that item, attach the original card to the new, unwrapped gift and return it to any drop-off location by Friday, Dec. 4.

Captain Clay Mackey, one of the drive's founders and a coordinator, said the effort reflects the community's generosity. "Each year, when we share that there's a need, people respond with kindness and a willingness to help," Mackey said in the release.

The department also accepts monetary donations. Residents can contact the Franklin Fire Department at 615-791-3270 or follow @FranklinFirefightersCharities on Facebook for details.

The Macy's partnership goes beyond gift tags. Earlier this fall, the Franklin Fire Department teamed up with Macy's CoolSprings Galleria on a Round Up campaign that let customers round up in-store purchases to the nearest dollar, the department said on X.

Drop-off locations: