Columbia County Fire Rescue presented checks to the Burn Foundation of America and Columbia County Community Connections during the Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 5.
Fire Chief Jeremy Wallen said it’s always a privilege and honor to present the checks, which were for over $31,000, to both organizations. During the final two weekends in May, firefighters are outside local businesses for six days collecting donations from community members.
“These two organizations are so vital to our citizens, especially the children in this community,” Wallen said. “We’ve incorporated both of their organizations into our basic training. We go out, and each new firefighter/medic spends time there and understands what these organizations do and how they benefit us every day.”
Steve Chalker, chief operating officer for the Burn Foundation of America, thanked Fire Rescue for all they do for the organization and the community. He said the money they receive from the boot drive goes directly to the patient services at Doctor’s Hospital.
“We try to do as much as we can with that, it’s such a gracious gift,” Chalker said. “Not only for that, but what they do every day…when these guys are out doing the boot drives, we try and go out and meet as many of them as we can. We do that a lot and It’s a lot of fun for us. But having met so many of the great men and women that work for Columbia County Fire Rescue, it makes me feel great.
Community Connections Resilient Teens Coordinator and PSSF Coordinator Demetrius Middleton also thanked Fire Rescue for all they do. He mentioned their involvement with the Dream Academy and the Christmas toy drive.
“You guys have came and sat in our Dream Academy restaurant and the kids seeing you guys present and everything you do for us, whenever we call you and you’re there for us,” Middleton said.
Stephanie Hill is the managing editor and covers Columbia County government for The Augusta Press. Reach her at stephanie@theaugustapress.com.
