NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. -- Firefighters in New Hartford lend a helping hand to the community. The volunteer Fire Department held its first canned food drive Saturday to support the Salvation Army of Utica.

The idea came from a plea the Salvation Army made to get help with the growing need for food in area pantries. Pantries are also in need of products such as paper towels, toilet paper, and diapers.

The New Hartford Fire Department thought they could do their part to help while also getting into the holiday spirit.

"We thought it was a great idea that we could incorporate it while we're setting up our Christmas decorations every year that we think of those that are a little less fortunate, “said David Corr with the New Hartford Fire Department

And if you couldn't make it to the fire department, donations are always accepted at the Salvation Army in Utica.