Tempe firefighters to take 70 kids shopping
Dec 12, 2013, 3:53 PM | Updated: 3:53 pm
PHOENIX — The holidays will get a bit more magical for 70 Tempe children Saturday when a group of firefighters will take them shopping.
“One of the great things about being a firefighter is the chance to serve Tempe when we’re not out at an emergency,” said Brad Whitley, the firefighter’s union leader of charity events and a seven-year fire veteran. “We’re excited to have such a large group this year. The kids have a great time shopping and so do we.”
The shopping spree will take place at the Target store at 1818 E. Baseline Road at 9 a.m. It’s funded by the union and the retailer.
“For a lot of kids all over Tempe, this event is the difference between a holiday full of smiles and one more tough day among many,” said Don Jongewaard, president of the Tempe firefighters union. “Thanks to Target and our members, we can make the kids feel great and we get to help our community at a very special time of year.”
Santa will make an appearance after the shopping trip to help wrap presents.