PINELLAS PARK, Fla. — Santa Claus got to work early Tuesday night in Pinellas Park.

He made a special delivery to families in need and got some help from some unlikely lifesaving, firefighting elves.

Huge black bags filled with toys, boxes of food for families, and a Pinellas Park fire truck were set to go. Firefighter Jason Pickett helped old Saint Nick trade in his reindeer for a red engine and it was all for a good cause.

"We started doing this with some local ladies in the community that wanted to do something for some local kids that needed some help," Pickett said. "It started small and it’s just blossomed from there. We do about 10 families on Christmas Eve. We go around with Santa and deliver gifts."

Their first stop was the home of Crystal Jones and her daughter Skie. The stop was right on time for the family.

"About five or six years ago, I was having issues with money and doing stuff for her for Christmas and I just found out through the community that Pinellas Park Fire Department helps out with families in need," Jones said. "And at the time I needed help."

Skie is 11 years old, has cerebral palsy, and is non-verbal. "She's a very smart, beautiful little girl," Jones said.

The fire department's effort continued a 20-year-tradition that never gets old.

If you or someone you know is in need for Christmas and you live in Pinellas Park you can contact the Pinellas Park Fire Department during the holiday season and apply for assistance.