They were also treated to a tour of the station during which they were able to meet a number of female officers, dispatchers, and civilian staff – including Sgt. Starr who is pictured.

In 2008, Corey Castro was 7 and began monthly infusions for a rare bone disease known as Gorham’s Disease at the hospital. As a patient, he was asked if he wanted a gift from the center’s toy box.

Corey noticed the toy box was low and asked his family if they could fill it for other children receiving services at the center. The Castro family sent out emails and letters to friends and within a few weeks they received approximately $5,000 in toys.

Their effort, supported by Ventura Police, has provided toys and gifts to more than 1,200 children. Their work also raises awareness for the only pediatric oncology and hematology center in Ventura County. (Story credit: VC Star.)