A 5k run took place at Crissy Field Sunday morning. The event is called Run Wild San Francisco and is sponsored by the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Program.
At least 2,500 people -- groups of families and friends -- brought unwrapped toys and monetary donations to support the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Program which needs toys now, early enough to deliver them to children in need.
The toy program has evolved since 1949 when it was just a few firefighters repairing broken toys and bikes for 15 families.
Now, 300 firefighters and volunteers distribute more than 200,000 toys to more than 40,000 disadvantaged children in the Bay Area. Organizers note that this run, now in its seventh year, is a fun way to get the community together for a greater cause.
"You know, we got a lot of people going for a fast 5K time, but the majority of people are here for fun. Everybody is going to be wearing a Santa Hat," race director Dave Rhody said.
"This is a great run and actually it's a good way to start after Thanksgiving, shed off a few extra pounds," San Francisco Fire Department spokesperson Barry Wong said.
The toy program serves various community organizations, shelters for abused women and children, inner-city schools, children's cancer wards, and pediatric aids units.
If you would like to support the cause with an unwrapped toy or a monetary donation just go to the San Francisco Fire Department's website.
