BUFFALO, N.Y. — Firefighters took a break from the cold to give back on Thursday.

At Oishei Children's Hospital, Buffalo firefighters arrived with big, red bags filled with toys for patients.

The tradition began last year after raising money in honor of the firefighters lost in 1983 and using that money to purchase toys for children.

Hospital Chief Medical Officer Dr. Stephen Turkovich says having the firefighters handing out the toys makes it that much more special for the children.

"I think one of the most rewarding things to me is to see our visitors like the firefighters come in and bring some smiles to the children here, some children that haven't smiled in a long time. So that's the gift I think that is immeasurable and we're so grateful for that,” said Turkovich.

Firefighters handed out about 200 stuffed animals for children to be able to cuddle with at the hospital.