To say that the Johnston Association of Firefighters has many terrific traditions would be an understatement.
When it comes to giving back to the community, in a number of ways, no group does it better than Local 1350.
For example, the JFD Firefighters have raised money to help battle Muscular Dystrophy through their famous “Boot Drive” and have always funded sports squads in Johnston.
Just a few days ago, Local 1950 set a record of giving 36 Thanksgiving baskets, replete with turkeys, to needy families in Johnston. Then there’s the Fire Bowl, a flag football game that brings in extraordinary amounts of canned goods and non-perishable items that this year pushed the Tri-County Community Action Agency’s Food Closest over the top.
Among the newer examples of giving was having specially designed and printed flags made for the highly successful Race for Grace Golf Tournament that raised $16,000 in its first ever run for Friedrich’s Ataxia Research.
“We love helping people and groups through our Charitable Fund,” Jon Pistacchio, Vice President of Local 1950, said. “However, we are really, really excited about this year’s Toys for Tots Drive.”
What Pistacchio described as “one of our favorite charitable events” will be held this Saturday, December 9, beginning at 7 o’clock at Bar 101 located at 1478 Atwood Avenue in Johnston.
“The toy drive has become a tradition,” Pistacchio said. “Saturday will mark the seventh year in a row we’ve held the [toy] drive. We are co-sponsors with the Johnston Police Officers Local 307 and, of course, the fantastic folks at Bar 101.”
Judging from the enthusiasm that was evident during Tuesday’s press briefing, Local 1950, Local 307 and Bar 101 could set a record during Saturday’s 7th Annual Toys for Tots Drive that will again benefit needy children and is administered around Rhode Island by the United State Marine Corps Reserves.
“It’s a simple system that works wonders for children who otherwise might not have a Christmas,” Pistacchio said. “Bar 101 will be again putting out a free buffet for anyone who donates a new and unwrapped toy or gift. It’s that simple.”
Pistacchio explained that in past years some people have brought several big bags that were filled with toys that are placed inside the back end of a Johnston Fire Department rescue vehicle. That vehicle will be outside Bar 101 from 7 o’clock Saturday night until about 10 p.m.
“We have once again set our goal at completely filling the back of a rescue with toys,” he said. “In recent years we’ve had people donate small bicycles, games…all kinds of things that people hope will make Christmas merry for children of needy families.”
He also announced that the Marines will be on hand to help accept the toys and rumor has it Santa Claus will make his annual appearance.
“We’re hoping this is a record-setting toy drive,” said Pete Matteo, the popular owner of Bar 101. “My partners Justin [Lemieux] and Jamie [Beaulieu] are really looking forward to the biggest night we’ve ever had here. The food will be fantastic and even if you can’t stay long or have another party to attend, please drop off a new and unwrapped toy or two; your gift will spread goodwill for those children in need.”
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here