The fire department is hoping for success in first holiday food drive.
By KRYSTAL NURSE
The Sun
Normally when people interact with their local fire department, it’s for a report of a fire or gas or carbon monoxide leak. The interaction can be devastating for some, as it is during a dire and urgent time of need. The Mantua Township Fire Department seeks to change that with its first holiday food drive.
Lt. Michael NaHas said he brought up the idea during a meeting with the district’s personnel and volunteers to address the needs of a family in the community, as elementary schools in the area have raised food for others.
A family has not been identified, but a member of the district is on the committee and is looking to find a family.
“My plan is that if what we have is not right for the family, we’ll find a way ourselves to help out the family through the volunteers, myself or the station with food, toys and clothes,” said NaHas.
The department is in search of non-perishable food, such as canned goods and unwrapped toys. NaHas hopes to have boxes set up in businesses throughout Mantua Township to assist in collecting items.
“If we have more than what’s needed, we’ll find a local organization or someone in the county to give the extra items to,” said NaHas.
Nahas said he always wanted to do something for residents because he wants people to see the department is there not only for emergencies, but also for community support and to share conversations with them.
Previously, the department has done similar toy, food and coat drives, but it hasn’t recently, something NaHas wants to change.
Upon the conclusion of the drive, the family will receive the items in a private meeting with firefighters.
“I wouldn’t make it too public to help hide it from their neighbors because some might be ashamed or embarrassed,” said NaHas.
Whether the drive could become an annual event is not yet determined by NaHas or any of the other firefighters.
People are able to stop by the 155 E. Union Ave. station at any time (the station is staffed 24 hours a day), or hand donations to firefighters when Santa strolls around the township on Dec. 15. Donations are being accepted until Dec. 20.
