BY JEFF CHUDZINSKINorth Country This Week

MASSENA -- Dozens of families, children and community members came together to celebrate National Night Out at Massena's Police Activities League on Aug. 4. 

"The Massena Police Department would like to sincerely thank everyone who spent the evening with us for our National Night Out event, Massena Community Hero's Day. The turnout was incredible, and seeing so many families, children, and community members come together made the event truly special. We enjoyed every minute of it!" Massena Police wrote on Facebook. 

The event was made possible by the First Responder's Children's Foundation and CSX, which selected the Massena Police Department as one of 50 recipients out of hundreds of other departments. 

Through their support, 600 toys were delivered to PAL to be distributed to Massena youth. 

"Without their generosity, this event would not have happened. Every toy given away was donated through the First Responders Children's Foundation, and judging by the smiles on the kids' faces, they were a huge hit!" Massena Police wrote. 

Chief Cody Wilson gave special credit to Bill Doyle and PALs staff for their support in making the event a reality. 

"When we were searching for the perfect location to host this event, Bill immediately opened PAL's doors to the first responders of Massena without hesitation. Not only did they provide an outstanding venue, but they also kept the children entertained with a variety of games and activities throughout the evening," he said. 

The event went off without a hitch as the PAL Board of Directors and support staff dedicated hour upon hour to help organize and prepare for the event. 

"heir commitment to PAL and to the youth of our community speaks volumes about the kind of people they are," Massena Police wrote. 

The event also featured many Village of Massena Permanent Firefighters, as well as Massena Volunteer Fire Department members, Massena Rescue Squad members and the New York State Police. 

"We appreciate the firefighters and volunteers who proudly showcased what they do every day to keep our community safe. Thank you to Massena Rescue for demonstrating the important services you provide, and to the New York State Police for bringing the "Seatbelt Convincer." We think every child (and adult) who took that ride now understands just how important it is to buckle up!" Massena Police wrote. 

The event also featured Italian Affair providing food for attendees, as well as a number of donations from BJ's Wholesale Club, which donated water and chips for all attendees. 

All leftover snacks were donated to the children at PAL, Wilson said. 

Popsicles were donated by the Massena Walmart as well. 

"We also appreciate the St. Lawrence County Peace Coalition for joining us, interacting with the children, and spending the evening building positive relationships with our first responders. Thank you for being part of our community," Massena Police wrote. 

Police said the event was only possible with the support of the community, sponsors and volunteers who gave their time and resources to support the cause. 

"Finally, thank you to every volunteer, every sponsor, every first responder, every community partner, and every family who came out to support this event. Seeing our community come together reminds us why events like this are so important," Massena Police wrote.