Three area fire departments are helping twenty-one Richmond County children have a happier Christmas.
The East Rockingham Fire Department, which arranged the program, collaborated with Cordova Fire and Rescue and the Rockingham Fire Department to take the youngsters shopping on December 7 at Walmart.
According to Katelin Brigman, ERFD’s firefighter and public relations officer, each child got a $250 allowance for toys, clothes, and whatever else they wanted to buy, and they were accompanied by a combined crew of 18 firefighters from the departments.
Brigman stated that the financing was provided through in-house donations, with each member contributing to the cause.
“We as a department are glad we were able to help sponsor children within Richmond County this year for Christmas,” Brigman told reporters. “We wish these youngsters and their family a joyous Christmas.
According to Chief Harold Isler, this was the first time RFD had participated in the event.
“I am extremely glad that the RFD was extended the invitation to participate this year,” says Isler. “Our employees had a great time during the event. We were all delighted to see the children’s smiles as they shopped.
“The event was a huge success and definitely showed exactly what Christmas is all about,” Isler remarked, expressing hope that the department will participate again in the future. “Glad the RFD was able to play a small role in making a few kids’ Christmas a little brighter this year.”
Later this month, the Rockingham Police Department and Richmond County Sheriff’s Office will hold their respective shopping programs.
Both of these activities are partially supported by the yearly Back the Blue motorcycle event.
This year, the sheriff’s office will also hold its annual Santa parade.
Ellerbe will perform on December 20th at 3 p.m.
Dec. 21: East Rockingham at noon and Cordova at 2 p.m.