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Oxford Volunteer Fire Department Marks 80 Years of Holiday Tradition

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December 22, 2025 | NEW JERSEY Courtesy of Oxford Volunteer Fire Department,
This article is a direct street report from our correspondent and has not been edited by the 1st Responder newsroom.

On December 22, the Oxford Volunteer Fire Department marked a meaningful milestone as it continued a holiday tradition that has served the community for more than 80 years. Every Christmas season, firefighters accompany Santa on a tour of the neighborhood, giving oranges to kids and families. Despite its simplicity, the gesture has profound significance. An orange was regarded as a unique and uncommon present decades ago, signifying compassion, hope, and charity amid trying times. Today, the custom serves as a reminder that the holiday's ethos is based on communal connectedness and thoughtfulness.

Firefighters observed that the children's enthusiasm along the path and the neighbors' unity are what sustain the tradition year after year. Additionally, the department expressed gratitude to Dellightful Bakery for serving members breakfast that morning. The Oxford Volunteer Fire Department wished the community a happy Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year.

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Courtesy of Oxford Volunteer Fire Department

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