Santa might traverse the world in a sleigh but other industrious elves, some of which drive fire trucks, have been hard at work right here in Surrey.
About 20 families in need were treated to the spirit of Christmas on Sunday when members of the Fire Fighters Union 1271’s annual Adopt-A-Family program served them lunch, donated thousands of dollars worth of gifts, and provided all the fixings for Christmas dinner.
“Some of these families are in pretty fragile states,” said Robert Tewson, director of the Adopt-A-Family program.
Each Surrey fire hall takes on at least one family to make sure they have a Christmas meal and gifts under the tree. A representative from each fire hall was in attendance Sunday.
“At the end of the day we just want them to have one good day this year, at least give them one good day,” said Tewson.
A bouncy castle, climbing wall and a crafts table were some of the activities available to kids as well as pictures with Santa, said Terry Hunt, director of the Surrey Firefighters Charitable Society.
“I think (Sunday) was one of our best events yet,” said Hunt.
The 20-year tradition was held at the Tong Louie Family YMCA, which provided its venue on Highway 10 and 152 Street for the occasion.
Donations from companies such as Valley View Funeral Home and Aspen Developments also helped make the day a success.
“The more people that get involved… the easier it is for all of us,” said Tewson.
The event starts the season off on the right foot and every year it gets better, he said.
“Every firefighter that participated in this, they’re doing it on their own time. One hundred per cent of what took place was on volunteer time,” said Tewson.
“When it all comes together, all of a sudden the world is a little bit better,” he said.