To say that Local 1950 — the union for the Johnston Association of Firefighters — is perhaps the most unique non-profit when it comes helping those in need would be an understatement.
Fresh from yet another special story of giving, a record 41 thanksgiving food and turkey baskets to families in need, Local 1950 upheld its terrific tradition of adopting families and helping to make their Christmases merry.
“We have been doing this for over 20 years,” Richard Boehm, a JFD battalion chief, said while showing off valuable gift cards he and other Local 1950 members were taking to two Johnston schools. “This year we will donate over $2,000 in gift cards from Stop & Shop and Target to approximately 20 families.”
Those gift cards, in fact, are made possible through the generosity of all Local 1950 members who personally donate money to purchase the gift cards as well as the food and turkey baskets.
“We truly believe in giving back to our community,” Boehm went on. “We’ve been told by many families how blessed they are that we help them during the holiday season. But to be honest, we truly feel blessed for our jobs and to be in a place where we can give back. It’s the greatest feeling in the world.”
Even the gift card distribution is unique.
For over a decade, Local 1950 has adopted families from Winsor Hill Elementary School by working closely with teacher Dina Needham, who coordinates the Food Cupboard and who he said, “is absolutely amazing with the work she does.”
Likewise, Boehm coordinates the same gift giving with Selene Clark, a social worker at Thornton Elementary School, who he emphasized “cares very much for each and every student.”
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