A Longton Community Care Package is being put together for the team at Longton Fire Station, with donations being collected at Pearl and Gray in Longton Exchange Shopping Centre until Wednesday 19 August.
The idea is simple. Fill a care package with small treats and everyday essentials for the firefighters who have spent the summer responding to incidents across the area, while giving the Longton community an opportunity to say thank you.
Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service have dealt with around 1200 outdoor fires across Staffordshire in just the last 2 months.
The impact has been seen much closer to home too.
A busy summer for Staffordshire firefighters
The multiple fires at Park Hall Country Park saw firefighters battling the blazes for almost 24 hours.
Multiple appliances, a water carrier and rangers were involved, with crews then called back just days later following further deliberate fires.
Behind every incident are firefighters working in difficult and dangerous conditions to protect communities across Staffordshire.
Now Longton is being asked to show them just how much that work is appreciated.
What can you donate?
The care package does not need extravagant gifts. The aim is to collect lots of smaller items which crews can enjoy at Longton Fire Station.
Donations could include:
- Coffee and tea
- Biscuits and chocolate
- Treats and snacks
- Drinks
- Toiletries
- Cakes or other goodies from local businesses
- Little treats for the crew to enjoy
Even something as simple as a packet of biscuits, a box of chocolates or a few drinks can be added to the collection.
Small monetary contributions towards goodies are also welcome.
"We see what you do. We appreciate you. And Longton is grateful."
Where to donate
Donations can be dropped off at:
Pearl and Gray
Longton Exchange Shopping Centre
The deadline for contributions is Wednesday 19 August.
https://www.facebook.com/pearlandgray
Add your name to Longton's thank you card
There will also be something a little more personal included with the care package.
Everyone who makes a donation will have the opportunity to write or sign their name in a special Longton community Thank You card.
The card will be delivered alongside the care package, meaning firefighters will not simply receive a box of treats, but a collection of messages and names from the people and businesses in the community they help to protect.
Once everything has been collected, the care package will be put together and personally delivered to Longton Fire Station on behalf of everyone who has taken part.
It is a small gesture after a demanding summer, but one which could send a big message from Longton.
Because whilst they spend their days looking after us, it's our turn to look after them.
If you would like to take part, make sure your donation reaches Pearl and Gray at Longton Exchange Shopping Centre by Wednesday 19 August.
