The tradition for more than 25 years is back, with the Saugus Fire Department, once again spearheading the department’s Holiday Toy Drive.

Retired Fire Capt. Bill O’Malley, along with other former and current members of the Saugus Fire Department, are grabbing at the chance to provide gifts for local families again this year, a little something that brightens the holidays for hundreds of families in need.

O’Malley says the toy drive has been very successful over the years and that they are very glad that they are able to help because no one should feel left out, especially around the holidays.

Each year, O’Malley along with his team of volunteers put collection bins at Town Hall, the Fire Department, banks, and other town hot spots where residents can easily drop off their gifts.

The Saugus Lions Club also plays a vital role in supporting the toy drive. Earlier this month the organization held a Christmas party where guests were asked to bring a gift, and there is also a collection bin in the building.

After the ‘elves’ or O’ Malley’s team pick up the presents, they take them back to Santa’s Workshop at the Essex Street Fire Station and then sort them out according to age and gender. After the sorting process, the volunteers put the gifts into huge black bags, so that the children won’t get a peek at their gifts before Dec. 22, when the gifts are typically delivered to the homes, just in time for parents to put the packages under the tree.

The team expects to reach out to more than 60 families this month.

New and unopened gift donations can be dropped off at the Essex Street Fire Station, 120 Essex St., or at any of the collection boxes around town. For assistance or information about this project, you may call 781-233-7274.