WILLIMANTIC, Conn. — September 6, 2025 — Willimantic Fire Fighters Local 1033 and the Willimantic Police Department teamed up Saturday for a toy drive at Stop & Shop, collecting gifts to benefit Windham Area Interfaith Ministry (WAIM) and Toys for Tots. Donations were accepted until 3 p.m.

The one-day event drew a steady stream of community members dropping off new, unwrapped toys. The contributions will help WAIM provide families with an opportunity to choose toys that best fit their children’s wishes during the upcoming holiday season.

Organizers said the drive was a success and praised the generosity of local residents. The Willimantic Police Department also thanked the public in a social media post, calling the event “a true reflection of our community’s spirit of giving.”

Latest Update: Collection efforts wrapped up Saturday afternoon. The donated toys are now being sorted and prepared for distribution ahead of the holidays. Organizers encouraged residents who missed the event to donate directly to WAIM or watch for additional toy drives later this season.