The Dryden Fire Service and other partners are taking the lead to bring some joy to area kids as well as the entire community.
Members of the service have been holding mini-parades almost everyday for a youngster who is celebrating a birthday.
Deputy Fire Chief Kent Readman says this is a difficult time for youth as they are stuck inside their home and unable to see their friends.
“For a kid on its birthday it’s usually a pretty special event and most of them don’t understand why they can’t have their parties, they can’t have their friends and family to hang out with, they can’t have their big normal parties, so we thought we could bring the party to them.”
Readman says the thrill for the volunteer team is seeing the smiles on the childrens faces.
He notes reaction from the community has been beyond expectations.
“Our original Facebook posts, just over a week ago, we reached over 36,000 people with our one post, generated hundreds of likes and shares out of that original post. Eight days, I think we’ve done about 25 birthday parties and we have a whole bunch more lined up.”
Readman says volunteer firefighters will continue to hold the parade of vehicles until the pandemic comes to an end.
He stresses they have seen an outpouring of support from residents.
“If they know we are coming to their neighbourhood they have started posting signs as we drive by thanking frontline workers and first responders. So this has extended way beyond us as a Fire Service. It’s the police, EMS, the hospital staff, grocery store people. Everyone that’s doing their part to keep the community moving and safe.”
Readman notes they have been joined by members of the Oxdrift Fire team and Falcon Beach Towing and he appreciates their support.
Readman says this initiative is also an opportunity for firefighters to spread fire safety messages.
To hear more from Kent Readman, visit the Audio link below.
Posted by City of Dryden Fire Service on Wednesday, April 15, 2020
