PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Friday morning, several Perrysburg Township Fire Department firefighters collected donations for local Perrysburg families.
Local 4170 through the PTFD has been collecting donations for their "Fill the Boot" campaign this time of year for the past several years, with about eight to 10 volunteers standing outside on Route 20 and Simmons.
Firefighters dressed warm and stood out in the intersections with their boots, greeting cars and the generous people inside them.
"First off, it is amazing," said Firefighter/Paramedic Mike Thompson with the Perrysburg Township Fire Department Local 4170. "To see everybody out smiling, bellies full from Thanksgiving, they're very bubbly, they're engaging with a smile, and they're more than happy to throw some change in there, couple dollars, and we love to see it."
The purpose of the "Fill the Boot" campaign is to collect money to support one or two Perrysburg families in need this Christmas, providing them with a fun holiday and to gift presents for both parents and children.
The money also goes towards victims of house fires to be able to purchase essential items such as deodorant, toothbrushes, and other household times one may not think to grab in a time of emergency.
Funds also contribute to mental health awareness events geared toward firefighters.
"The thing is, we keep it in Perrysburg Township," said Thompson. "We keep it to Perrysburg Township families and first responders, and we really want to give back and say thank you to anyone who comes out here and helps us."
Thompson also took the opportunity to remind people to be safe this holiday season with a reminder to make sure chimneys are cleaned before having any indoor fires, make sure to use the proper firewood, and make sure there are working smoke detectors inside the home and check the dates on the backside of the smoke detectors.
"Bottom line is, we just want everyone to stay safe and have a happy holiday season," said Thompson. "Spread the Christmas cheer, and give somebody a hug. Tell somebody something nice. Might make their day.
In order to donate after the Fill the Boot campaign, more information can be found on the Perrysburg Township Fire Department Facebook page here.
