As reported by IAFF, members of Local 2079 in Solon, Ohio, organized a food drive ahead of Thanksgiving to address increased demand at local food banks.
Jeff Barker, Local 2079 President, explained that the event, initiated in 2021, was inspired by the community’s values of service and giving.
Local grocery store Marc’s supported the effort with a $500 donation in its inaugural year and has continued its collaboration with the Local.
The food drive, traditionally held in December, was moved to November after organizers noticed families needing donations earlier to prepare for the holidays.
This year, members collected between 4,000 to 5,000 pounds of food, including canned goods and boxed items, which were donated at Marc’s parking lot.
“It’s an honor to lead such a dedicated group,” Barker said. “While this initiative may seem small, its impact is far greater than any of us can truly comprehend.”
In Burlington, Washington, IAFF Local 4111 worked with Helping Hands Food Bank to collect donations through November 27.
Community members were invited to drop off non-perishable food at the local fire station.
Richard Myers, Local 4111 President, said the initiative began last year when a member reached out to the food bank.
The effort has grown, with nearly 1,000 items donated in its first year.
“Our goal this year is to collect at least 1,200 items,” Myers said, adding that the food drive is now part of the Local’s annual charitable activities, which also include a coat distribution for children through Operation Warm.
IAFF Local 2928 in Palm Beach County, Florida, distributed more than 700 turkeys to residents in South Bay, Greenacres, and Riviera Beach.
The ten-year-old initiative identifies areas of need in collaboration with local elected officials.
Albert Borroto, Local 2928 Communications Coordinator, emphasized the importance of the giveaway in supporting families who might otherwise struggle to afford a holiday meal.
“It’s been heartwarming to see the impact it has every year,” Borroto said. “Our membership enjoys interacting with residents in a non-emergency setting and seeing the smiles on recipients’ faces.”
In Chelmsford, Massachusetts, IAFF Local 1839 organized a food drop-off at the Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge to assemble Thanksgiving baskets for families in need.
The donations, funded by the Local 1839 Charity Fund, were distributed to community members ahead of the holiday.
“Local 1839 is proud to support our community this holiday season,” said Local President Rob Albon, who thanked the Elks for their ongoing efforts.
IAFF Locals across the U.S. have taken initiatives to address food insecurity this Thanksgiving season.
Solon, OH Local 2079 organized a food drive collecting up to 5,000 pounds of food with support from Marc’s grocery store.
Burlington, WA Local 4111 partnered with Helping Hands Food Bank to gather donations, aiming to exceed last year’s collection of 1,000 items.
Palm Beach County, FL Local 2928 distributed over 700 turkeys, helping residents in need enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
In Chelmsford, MA, Local 1839 provided Thanksgiving baskets through donations to the Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge.
These efforts reflect IAFF members’ dedication to supporting their communities beyond their roles as first responders.
