Columbia Fire Department Hosting Community Open House and Toy Drive
In an effort to support teens living with sickle cell anemia, the Columbia-Richland Fire Department is set to host a Community Open House on Friday, June 21, 2024. The event, which will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the department’s headquarters station on Laurel Street, is free to the public.
Showing Support for Teens with Sickle Cell
While the event is free of cost, attendees are encouraged to bring gift donations for young people living with sickle cell anemia. “This event really is about showing support for our area kids who are battling this lifelong debilitating condition,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins. “It’s just a simple thing we can do to hopefully bring them some joy, and I hope that many people in our community will help us with that effort.”
A Day of Firefighting Fun
Beyond charitable contributions, the open house offers attendees a chance to experience firefighting up-close. Families and individuals interested in firefighting will have an opportunity to see CRFD firetrucks, gear, and equipment in person. Meanwhile, the department’s museum will be open for tours and the day will also feature games, music, and food.
Benefiting the James R. Clark Sickle Cell Foundation
Proceeds from the open house will go towards the James R. Clark Sickle Cell Foundation. The foundation, which aims to provide support for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease, will distribute the gifts collected at the event to children during the Christmas season.
An Invitation to the Community
In summarizing the department’s appeal to the community, Chief Jenkins stated, “I hope that many people in our community will help us with that effort.” With such a worthy cause driving the event, the Columbia Fire Department hopes to see strong community participation at the Community Open House this coming June.
