The Fort Walton Beach Fire Department is once again gearing up to brighten the holidays for local children and families through its annual Christmas outreach—a tradition that has grown in size, spirit and impact each year. Captain James Freudenberg, who leads the effort, said the department remains committed to “doing everything we can to help as many local children and families as possible.”
The Fire Department works closely with area schools, churches and community organizations to collect letters to Santa and ensure every child is matched with gifts chosen especially for them. During the COVID years, the team launched an innovative idea that quickly became a local favorite—the Santa’s Firehouse Cruz Thru Toy Drive—a drive-up event that gained both regional and national attention.
This year’s Cruz Thru will take place Saturday, Dec. 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fort Walton Beach Fire Department Station 6, located at 5 Hollywood Blvd. NE. Families and supporters can drive through, drop off new toys and enjoy holiday cheer from firefighters and volunteers.
Changes to the Donation Box Program
One of the most significant updates for 2025 involves the department’s donation box program. After COVID, the fire department partnered with local businesses to help encourage community involvement and support local shopping. While the program was successful, it required extensive manpower and daily coordination. “Unfortunately, without more departmental support, we won’t be able to manage the full donation box program this year,” Freudenberg said. “We will still have a limited number of donation boxes at select businesses, but we won’t be able to handle regular drop-offs or pick-ups.”
Businesses that still wish to participate may host their own collection box, and the department will gladly provide flyers and informational materials.
High School Partnerships Grow
Support from local high schools continues to be an integral part of the event’s success. The department hopes to partner with Choctawhatchee High School’s JROTC to help pair donations with children and families based on their Santa letters. Meanwhile, Fort Walton Beach High School JROTC cadets will return for the fourth consecutive year to assist with wrapping all the gifts.
Transforming the Fire Station into Santa’s Workshop
Once donations are sorted and wrapped, Station 6 transforms into a Christmas wonderland. Families are invited to visit the station, decorate cookies, make ornaments, take holiday photos and enjoy time with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, who personally hand out the gifts. Each child receives presents selected specifically from their letter to Santa, along with a Polaroid keepsake photo. “One of the most special parts of this event is making sure each child receives gifts they actually asked for,” Freudenberg said. “That personal touch means the world to these families.”
How to Donate
The Fire Department is currently accepting donations of:
- New, unwrapped toys
- Clothing for ages 0–16
- Wrapping paper, tape and gift supplies
Donations can be dropped off during the Cruz Thru event, delivered directly to the fire station, or taken to select businesses listed on the department’s Facebook page.
The department is also seeking sponsors to assist with event supplies, decorations and safety gear for items such as bikes and skateboards. Cash or check donations may be dropped off at Station 6 or during the Cruz Thru.
On December 13, Run With It will also collect donations during its annual Reindeer Dash. More details can be found on the store’s Facebook page.
Stay Connected
Regular updates, donation box locations and volunteer information will be posted on the Fort Walton Beach Fire Department Facebook page. Questions may be directed to Capt. Freudenberg at (850) 287-6958 or jfreudenberg@fwb.org.
“Thank you for your continued support in making the holidays brighter for children and families in our community,” Freudenberg said.
