By O’RYAN JOHNSON
The Boston Herald
Copyright 2006 Boston Herald Inc.
A parade of emergency vehicles complete with emergency medical technicians decked out for the holidays delivered hundreds of toys yesterday to the SPARK program in Mattapan and Boston Medical Center’s Pediatric AIDS unit.
It is the 27th year that the EMS division of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association has led the drive to donate toys to needy children in both programs.
“We see sick and injured kids all the time,’' said union vice president and EMT Robert Morely. “To see a little kid smile does your heart good.’'
Martha Vibbert, executive director of Supporting Parents and Resilient Kids, or SPARK, formerly known as the Children’s AIDS program, said EMS workers support the group throughout the year, but never more so than at Christmas.
“They bring so much joy and life to this program and the staff,’' she said. ``And they give the kids a great time when they come.’'
She said the program serves roughly 60 children who battle a variety of problems, from AIDS to abuse.
An EMT dressed as Santa passed out gifts to about 30 children at the SPARK program yesterday, and then even more at Boston Medical Center.
Meanwhile, other EMTs sang Christmas carols. Morely said a limited supply of toys remains. He said anyone who knows of a family in need can contact Boston Emergency Medical Services for help.