By Minday Ragan Wood
News Editor
Piedmont Fire Department, Pafford EMS and Piedmont Area Veterans Association are teaming up for a record-breaking year for needy families.
Sparky’s Donation Station will serve 120 children, spokeswoman and PFD firefighter Kara Owens said.
“Last year we served just shy of 100 kids and 35 families,” Owens said. “They’re all in the Piedmont public school district. Some of it (requests) is truly heartbreaking. They literally ask for hygiene items, shampoo, razors. There are families in our district who are in need.”
A fundraiser breakfast for Sparky’s is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday December 7.
“They’ll be serving pancakes, sausage, biscuits and gravy for donations at the door,” Owens said. “We all know those veterans can cook it up right.”
In addition to winter coats, warm clothing and toys, Sparky’s Donation Station volunteers make sure families have a Christmas dinner. Several Piedmont quilters have already donated 36 quilts to Sparky’s last month.
“Without the phenomenal support of the community we would not able to do this project,” Owens said. “It’s truly a blessing to see the support for these needy families.”
Unwrapped donated items can be dropped off at the Piedmont Fire Department, 314 Edmond Road NW and at the PAVA center, 170 Edmond Road N. Sparky’s donation trees will also be set up in schools where the public can choose specific items that need to be purchased for the drive.
Families in need will be available for adoption next Friday, October 15. Anyone interested can contact Owens by phone at 405-613-2229.
