The Nelson Professional Firefighters Charitable Society has donated $5,000 to food programs for students and families at Blewett Elementary, Hume Elementary, Rosemont Elementary, South Nelson Elementary and Wildflower Nelson School. It is the largest donation the firefighters have made to date to feed children in School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake).

“Our annual golf tournament was very successful. It was double what we normally raise,” said Nelson Firefighter Chris Thast. “We voted that we wanted all the money to stay local, and we wanted to give back more this year.”

“The funding that we receive from the Nelson Firefighters goes directly to student lunches and food support, and food for families in need. It helps them stretch what they’re able to provide for their own families,” said South Nelson Elementary Principal Dawn Snell. “It’s very strategic for us to support those families in need, so we’re really grateful.”

Firefighters are a familiar presence in Nelson area schools, visiting each year with emergency response vehicles, fire engines and other firefighting gear and equipment to educate students about fire safety at home and in the community. 

“Firefighters coming to our school was huge. The kids talked about it for a long time. It’s a highlight for students and staff,” said Blewett Elementary Principal Jordon Konken.

Thast sees supporting community as an important part of their role as firefighters. 

“It’s why we want to give back when we hear where the money's going and how it helps local families.”

The donations will help pay for snacks for SD8 students during the school day, for programs that provide groceries to families and other SD8 food equity programs so that children are well-nourished and ready to learn each day.