Columbia County Fire Rescue would like to say “thank you” to the citizens of Columbia County and surrounding counties for their support during the annual boot drive which took place April 20-22 and April 27-29. Because of the community’s generosity, the Fire Rescue team raised a total of $75,003.00 which will benefit the Southeastern Firefighter’s Burn Foundation and Columbia County Community Connections.

Columbia County Fire Rescue has supported various groups over the years some of which include the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Children’s Miracle Network. Choosing the Burn Foundation as one of the benefiters was an easy decision for the Fire Rescue team as they provide housing and food to the families of burn victims at Doctors Hospital. According to Chief Wallen, “the help the foundation provides the families is amazing, and immediately after walking into the foundation, you see the benefit of the generosity of people in this community.”

They began supporting Columbia County Community Connections approximately two years ago. This organization was chosen because it provides over a dozen programs exclusively in Columbia County and directly benefits this community. In addition, the organization provides a way for the Fire Rescue team to take children shopping at Christmas. Columbia County Community Connections keeps a few thousand dollars of the money given to them by CCFR and use it to fund the Christmas shopping event. The team looks forward to this event every year as it benefits many children in need.

At the end of the drive, CCFR exceeded their goal of $65,000 by $10,000 making their grand total $75,003. They do not keep any of the monies raised and will split the total evenly between the two non-profit organizations selected. Chief Wallen states “this community is very blessed and generous. Every year the team is excited to get out in the community and connect with a large part of the population. It is more than a fundraiser to them and gives them an opportunity to display our PRIDE in the community.”