By Shirley Shuman
Last year, in her work as an EMT in the county, Jen Clark noticed “some families that didn’t qualify for the programs available in the county for those needing help.” Because she wanted to provide aid to those individuals, she began fundraising late in the year for the program, “Shop with a First Responder.” With help from others, including EMTs, she found 24 children with whom the first responders could shop. This year, she and several others began early, and Clark is optimistic that many more children can participate.
Currently, several fundraisers are in the planning stage, and at least one, a car wash at the Frametown Fire Department, has been done. In the works are three which should appeal to many in the area. On July 27, Clark and the other fundraisers are sponsoring a softball tournament on the Little League Field at Holly Gray Park. She stressed that the tournament is open to anyone who wants to play. The first game will begin at 8:00 a.m. and run until 1 or 2:00 p.m. Those interested may contact Clark at 1 304-618-5322 or at the EMS headquarters.
Another fundraiser that should draw interest will be done on Facebook. Laura Wilson, with Alexis Sligar and others, will hold a silent auction in October. They are asking for donations of “products and services” until Sept. 30. To donate items for the auction, any individual may contact Wilson or Sligar through Facebook or Braxton EMS. The auction will begin with a preview of items Oct. 13-14. The actual auction will begin Oct. 15 and will run until 10:00 p.m. Oct. 18.
Also available are t-shirts with logos of law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, and 911. Those who wish to help the Shop with First Responders program by buying a t-shirt may call or text Clark or message her on Facebook. Interested individuals need to provide their names, size, color—blue or black, and sleeve length—long or short. The price of the shirt is $20.
Clark and the others working on these fundraisers definitely appreciate all those willing to participate.
