Port first responders collect food, toys for holidays

NEWBURYPORT — There was a huge police and fire presence outside Market Basket and Marshalls earlier this month, but not because something was wrong.

Instead, first responders were braving chilly temperatures and high winds to collect food and toys to benefit families and children across the region. Their appearances have become a holiday tradition in Newburyport and over the years has provided joy, support and comfort to thousands of people.