Spirit of the Season
Hot dog sales help make holidays bright'
By KATHY FERGUSON
Article published on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2005
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| File photo by KATHY FERGUSON |
| Seminole Fire Chief Dan Graves wraps presents for local families. |
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SEMINOLE - Residents may not even know it. But each time someone buys a hot dog, hamburger or soda at one of this community’s events during the year, a needy child’s holiday is made brighter.
Indeed, more than 30 children living in the Seminole Fire District will be lucky recipients of thousands of dollars worth of clothes and toys courtesy of this year’s fire rescue union’s annual campaign.
“Our union does cooking at all the community events like the Pow Wow, Music in the Park and Winterfest,” said Art Bruckler, president of the fire rescue union. “Every dollar goes to help the children.”
And, making sure children get what they truly want is important.
“We talk with each parent or guardian and ask what items are needed,” said Bruckler who added that one or two sets of school clothes are provided too.
Names of needy families are given from schools and churches in the area, and generally include those using the school district’s free or reduced lunch program. And, many are facing other challenges, like the young boy whose father recently passed away.
“He’s a good kid,” said Bruckler. “We are going to make sure he gets a (present concealed to protect the surprise).”
The gifts are provided with “no strings attached” and given in a respectful way that won’t embarrass the family, said Bruckler.
Over the next few weeks, fire rescue personnel will buy the personalized gifts. On Dec. 18, a gift-wrapping party will be held to put on the final touches.
“This is a fun time when city councilors and many other community leaders help us wrap the gifts,” said Bruckler.
Last year’s campaign was the best ever, he added. More than 55 youngsters received gifts totaling more than $5,500. This annual giving campaign is more than 25 years old. The Greater Seminole Area Chamber of Commerce also chips in toys and money.
“We’ve worked hard to keep it going,” Bruckler added. “This is a big job for our entire staff. But the families are very appreciative.”
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Article published on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2005
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