SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Baystate Medical Center employees got into the giving spirit as they celebrated their eleventh annual community toy drive. For over a decade, employees have taken it upon themselves to not only give toys to local children in need, but to also give them holiday memories they’ll never forget.

Children of all ages gathered at the hospital on Friday for some holiday fun, including gifts and music, but it’s not just about the kids this year. Organizers said it’s about the whole family.

Santa Claus, who was in attendance for the event, wanted to share a special message to everyone, not just the kids, this holiday. “Each of us has it within ourselves to be Santa. It’s not just about giving, but giving is good,” he explained. “It is about giving and sharing and loving and spreading peace and love on Christmas day.”

With that message in mind, Baystate expanded this year’s drive to include food donations as organizers said they know the need this year is greater than ever before.

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