Hamilton fire stations host annual Thanksgiving Open Houses and food drive

Fire halls across Hamilton opened their doors, inviting families for a show-and-tell, and to collect non-perishable goods to help food banks and meal programs across the region.

Children across the city were making unforgettable memories Monday afternoon: spraying fire hoses, posing for the camera, and getting to know what life is like for a firefighter.

“We’re having an open house for the community, so they can come in, see what we do, see some of the equipment and tools we work with, as well as ask any questions,” said Fire Capt. Darren Taylor with the Hamilton Fire Department.

Some things are second nature for children, like the fire pole, while others walk away from the driver’s seat of the engine perplexed at how complicated fire trucks are.

The open house also serves as a food drive, asking families to give back on a day that matters most.

“We’re asking people to bring in a food item, so we’re doing a food drive as well, to help people who need help with the food in our area,” said Taylor. “A lot of people this time of the year struggle, so we want to help them out as much as possible.”

WATCH MORE: Volunteers at Hamilton Stadium pack 500 food hampers for local families

“The importance of food drives is so everyone can eat, have a great meal — especially this time during Thanksgiving — everyone should be able to have a great Thanksgiving meal,” Alex Verkuyl with the Hamilton Fire Department.

Contributions made to the Hamilton Fire Department’s annual food drive go a long way, helping programs like the Flamborough Foodbank.

The Hamilton food truck helps deliver donations to food banks and meal programs across the city, making sure families in need have access to fresh, healthy food.

Taylor reminds families to take care even during the holiday, saying “I’d just like to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving, and to stay safe and make sure you always have two ways out.”

READ MORE: This is what’s closed for Thanksgiving Monday in our region