Local Firefighters Fill the Boot for Families in Need, Raise $10K

Published Dec. 2 at 1:19 p.m., Updated with photos at 7:45 p.m.

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. last Saturday, firefighters from Anthony, Central Coventry, Hopkins Hill and Western Coventry, as well as West Greenwich fire departments volunteered their time to participate in this year's "Tis the Season" Boot Drive. 

Firefighters were posted at the intersection of Tiogue Avenue, Arnold and Sandy Bottom Roads, fire boots in hand, accepting motorist contributions to benefit Coventry and West Greenwich families in need during the holidays.

A total of $10,213 was collected thanks to the efforts Coventry firefighters who collected 6,043 and West Greenwich firefighters who collected $4,170. This year's total surpassed the 2012 collection by more than $2,000. 

According to Coventry Human Services Director Pat Shurtleff, the "Fill the Boot" Drive was established in 1991 has become one of the largest fundraising efforts for the 'Tis the Season program.

"Without the collaboration of these professionals we would not be able to assist our neighbors, not only at the holidays but throughout the year," said Shurtleff. "It is truly a great example of communities coming together to help residents that may have seen during a crisis during the year." 

"'Tis the Season thanks all who were part of the Fireman’s Boot Day effort, the residents for their generous support, and those who were so thoughtful to bring coffee and hot chocolate to the firefighters who were collecting," Shurtleff continued. "This is another example of the good will in these communities and how people rise to the challenge for their fellow neighbor."