Long Beach, CA – January 2, 2025 – LBS Financial Credit Union employees donated hundreds of toys, books, clothing, and gift cards on December 10th to the Long Beach Fire Department’s “Spark of Love” Toy Drive. This donation is part of the Credit Union’s cherished tradition during its annual holiday breakfast.
The Long Beach “Spark of Love” Toy Drive began around 1955 when Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) Firefighter Murray Cohn started collecting toys for kids in need. Since then, LBFD continues to carry on this annual toy drive and delivers to families and community organizations during the holiday season.
“Through the combined generosity of Long Beach businesses and residents, each year the toy drive is able to provide gifts to approximately 400 families and over 20 different youth-based community groups,” said Will Nash, firefighter and toy drive coordinator. “I believe this builds goodwill within our community and provides kids with positive role models.”
“The Long Beach Fire Department’s commitment to the community is inspiring,” said LBS Financial Credit Union President & CEO, Sean Hardeman. “LBS Financial Credit Union is proud to support Long Beach first responders through this year’s toy drive as part of our ongoing tradition of donating to local nonprofits. Thanks to our employees for their kindness this holiday season.”
The holiday gifts were collected by Long Beach Fire Department firefighters and were distributed to children and families in the Long Beach area.
About LBS Financial Credit Union
LBS Financial, founded in 1935 as the Long Beach School District Employees Federal Credit Union, is a member-owned cooperative providing savings, checking, money market accounts, share certificates, IRA, insurance and investment services. LBS Financial also offers credit cards, personal, vehicle, boat and home loans. Their field of membership encompasses fifty cities surrounding the greater Long Beach area, as well as Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange and San Diego Counties. They serve over 140,000 members with seven branch office locations, convenient electronic access (ATMs, online banking and mobile banking) and are part of the CO-OP ATM and Shared Branching Networks. LBS Financial Credit Union has over $2.1 billion in total assets.
About the Long Beach “Spark of Love” Toy Drive
The Long Beach “Spark of Love” Toy Drive has a rich history of generosity and community spirit since 1955. Now 70 years later, the Long Beach Fire Department continues to carry on this annual tradition of gifting others. To donate, visit your local fire station and drop off an unwrapped gift in December. Together, we can show children they are important, worthy, and cared for, while showing families their community supports them. lbfdtoydrive.org
