A local foster child receives a gift from Santa Claus during last week’s Helping Hands event at Fire Station No. 1. |
SARASOTA COUNTY – Sarasota County Fire Department in, collaboration with the Sarasota Firefighters Benevolent Fund and Sarasota Safe Children Coalition, brought holiday cheer to 31 local foster children. On Friday, Dec. 15, the families were able to receive gifts from a special guest and tour the Fire Station No. 1.
The Helping Hands program, established by the Sarasota Firefighters Benevolent Fund in 2001, has helped over 200 children during the holiday season. Sarasota County Fire Chief Michael Regnier said the department is excited to help bring a bit of happiness to local children, many of whom are experiencing emotional difficulties.
The Sarasota Firefighters Benevolent Fund was established as a 501 c(3) charitable organization in 1996, to assist Sarasota County firefighters and their families during times of crisis. Through successful local events and fundraisers, the benevolent fund has been able to extend their helping hand to other Florida firefighters and to members of the local community. This year marked the 16th year for the Holiday Helping Hands program.
For more information, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net.
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