Sign-up day is Friday, Nov. 24 for the annual Escalon Fire Department holiday toy distribution.

The sign-up, for residents in need in the area, those residing within the Escalon Fire Department district boundaries, will run from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Escalon Fire Station at 1749 Coley Ave., Escalon. One day only for the sign-up.

For the past few years, the local firefighters have worked in cooperation with area businesses, the Escalon Police Department and a number of community service clubs and volunteers to help meet the demand for holiday gifts for residents in need.

The gifts are being sought for those from birth up to early teens, with all types of games, toys, puzzles, books, stuffed animals and more being sought.

Donation boxes are available at 16 locations around the community. Toys can be dropped off at Big Boy Market, D’Boni’s Pizza, Mt. Mike’s, The Learning Tree Preschool, Escalon City Hall, Bank of the West and Escalon Fire Station 1 on Coley Avenue.

Also, El Portal Middle School, Vineyard Pharmacy, Main Street Market, Oak Valley Bank, BBVA Bank, Escalon Premier Brands, Pizza Plus, Eckert Cold Storage and Dent Elementary School.

“If there are any other businesses out there that want a box, call me,” said coordinator Terry Pinheiro, a battalion chief for Escalon Fire.

He can be reached at 209-838-7500.

The distribution of the toys is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 23 at the firehouse at 10 a.m.

“If we get everything sorted and people are waiting outside, we will start earlier,” Pinheiro said.

Typically, the distribution moves along smoothly, with several volunteers ready to help share the holiday gift packages.