SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Fireman’s Association is gearing up for their annual calendar drive.
Established over 75 years ago and made up of 40 current and past firefighters in the department, the Southwick Fireman’s Association delivers more than 4,500 calendars to all residents in Southwick.
This photo was used for a past calendar from the Southwick Fireman’s Association. (WNG File Photo)
“We kind of use it as a way to give back to the community and showcase our members,” said Chris Garvey, a member of the Southwick Fireman’s Association and firefighter on the Southwick Fire Department.
Delivering the calendars to people in the community also gives them the chance to get to know the first responders in the fire department.
“It’s a great opportunity to put a name to the face,” said Garvey.
The calendar consists of photos from different trainings and community events and inside each one is an envelop that allows people to make a donation. According to Garvey, any donation goes right back to the Southwick Fireman’s Association. In the past, the association has used the money from the calendar drive to purchase new equipment, have community events, and create scholarships for high school students.
Although it’s optional, Garvey says the association will be grateful for any donations.
“Whatever we’re fortunate enough to receive certainly gets put to good use,” said Garvey.
During the 2016 calendar drive the Southwick Fireman’s Association received $16,000 from the community enabling them to purchase a new altering rescue vehicle.
Garvey added that the fireman’s association is planning on delivering calendars to residents this week.
