PERU, Ind. – The Peru Fire Department is preparing a special Christmas for a record number of Miami County children. Forty children will receive a better Christmas from the PFD’s efforts this year, which is nearly double the number of children served last year. Peru Fire Department Assistant Chief Robert Daine said various fundraisers, including the PFD’s 5K run, and donations from local businesses contribute the funds that the department is able to spend on necessities for children. Daine said firefighters and their spouses shop for children based on what the parents list as the child’s needs. PFD Firefighter Stacey Swinford said the PFD only buys necessities and food for Christmas dinner. Toys are provided through a partnership with Toys for Tots. At the PFD’s Christmas breakfast, children are able to interact with Santa, and the firefighters send parents home with the gifts and food box. For those interested in helping with the PFD’s Christmas drive, monetary donations can be brought to the fire station for next year, and volunteers are welcome for the breakfast on December 16th. Call the PFD for more details at (765) 472-2410.