The Westfield Youth Police Cadets gathered and organized the more than 200 toys that were donated for Toys for Joy. (Photo by Peter Currier)
WESTFIELD- Westfield Middle School hosted its annual faculty party and toy collection Dec. 5 to benefit city youth through the Toys for Joy program.
Principal Paul Newton said that he thought that this year’s collection for Toys for Joy may have been their most successful collection to date, with more than 200 toys collected in the school cafeteria during the party. The toys were mostly donated by teachers and staff at Westfield Middle School.
“Many of the toys are meant for kids aged 11 to 13 years-old will likely end up going to some kids in this school,” said Newton.
Westfield Middle School band teacher Ryan Emken (standing, left) directs the school band as they play holiday music during the faculty party. (Photo by Peter Currier)
Toys for Joy is an annual drive organized by the Salvation Army. All of Westfield’s Toys for Joy drives fall under the umbrella of the Salvation Army’s Springfield office.
In addition to the toy drive, students and faculty were invited to write letters to overseas troops for the holidays. Dozens of letters were written to be collected following the event.
The Westfield Youth Police Cadets took the donated toys back to the Westfield Police Department Headquarters where they were organized for the recipients The Youth Cadets also hosted its annual toy drive in front of Walmart on Saturday.
Westfield Middle School 7th grader Luke Bulan sings holiday songs while chorus teacher David Gomes backs him up on guitar. (Photo by Peter Currier)
During the event at Westfield Middle School, the WMS band, lead by Ryan Emken, played holiday music. They were accompanied by chorus teacher David Gomes and 7th grader Luke Bulan. Bulan sang solo holiday songs while Gomes backed him up on the acoustic guitar.
