Firefighting Students Hold Car Wash Fundraiser

Lakeland College Emergency Training School students having fun while they hold a car wash fundraiser for Hearts and Hands. Photo Caylie Gnyra

Platoon 2 (P2) firefighting students hosted their second annual car wash fundraiser for Hearts and Hands at Lakeland College’s Emergency Training Centre (ETC) on September 8 from 3 to 6 p.m.

The sunny 22-degree Celsius afternoon provided perfect weather for the event. Students donned half of their standard turnout gear–firefighting overalls and heavy boots–but took casual summer liberties with the rest of their attire.

These students are part of the second 12-week firefighter training program offered this year at ETC, which runs July 31 through October 20. Despite–or perhaps because of–the swift pace of the program, the students have already developed tight bonds with each other, and the car wash has become a treasured bonding experience.

Student organizers Chelsea Brintnell and Larisa Staub enthusiastically shared that the goal for the event was to give back to the surrounding area. “We’re only here for a short time, and we wanted to show appreciation for this town and community. Firefighting is all about being there for your community and making connections for life,” said Brintnell.

Students say some of the best parts of the program include the family they’ve developed together and the opportunities to see their peers grow and build courage through a solid support system.

“This has been a blast. We’re so excited to give back to this community. We really feel welcomed here,” Brayden DeBruyn, another organizer, said.

Cash donations will go to Hearts and Hands, a community-based charity that provides emergency/crisis packages for families in need. These packages include care supplies, food, and personal hygiene items—everything that might be needed in an emergency that the food bank can’t provide. If you require assistance please contact Heart and Hands at 780-581-0521.