Columbia-Richland firefighters and staff will once again be rolling up their sleeves to collect food donations in support of area families this Christmas.
The second annual ‘Firefighters Feeding Families Holiday Food Drive’ will be held on Friday, December 17, 2021 at CRFD Headquarters. Area citizens are encouraged to swing by the fire museum at headquarters that day to drop off canned goods and other non-perishable food items. From there donations will be sorted, bagged and distributed to citizens facing food needs this holiday season.
Last year was the department’s first time undertaking a food drive. When it concluded CRFD firefighters had successfully distributed more than 200 bags of food.
“It really was incredible to see members of the community step up the way they did in support of this campaign,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins, “Each year countless families in our area find themselves needing food to prepare adequate holiday meals. Anything that citizens can provide us to assist the less fortunate will be greatly appreciated.”
Examples of non-perishable items that can be dropped off include:
Canned meats and tuna
Canned potatoes, vegetables and fruits
Pasta and rice products
Canned pasta
Canned soups and stews
Cereals
Canned and dry beans
Pasta sauces
Nuts and dried fruits
ALL FOOD DONATED MUST NOT BE PAST EXPIRATION. CITZENS ARE ENCORUAGED TO CHECK THE EXPIRATION DATES ON ITEMS BEFORE DROPPING THEM OFF.
All collected items will go directly to support area families in needs. Citizens needing food assistance can call the department Monday through Friday during regular business hours (8 a.m. until 5 p.m.) at 803-545-3700. Messages can be left at that number.
For further information on the campaign contact PIO Mike DeSumma at 803-413-8555 or by sending an email to [email protected].