Firefighters collect for food bank

Published 8:42 pm Tuesday, December 16, 2008

MARYSVILLE — The men and women of the Marysville fire department put down their hoses and picked up collections to help area residents during the holiday season.

The Marysville firefighters and the Professional Firefighters Local 3219 were out in force earlier this month collecting donations for the Marysville food bank, which raised more than 3,400 pounds of food and $3,800.

While the economy and the temperature are both down, spokeswoman Kristen Thorstenson pointed out that the giving has been enthusiastic.

“The people were great, greeting the guys and giving generously even though this holiday is tougher than last year,” Thorstenson said. “Every donation is special.”

Many Snohomish County food banks have been in dire straights this year as the number of people seeking services and food has grown, the number and amount of donations has likewise shrank.

Despite the drop in charitable giving this year, the firefighters were able to give the food bank some much needed assistance. In Thorstenson’s opinion, it was a combination of holiday spirit and cheerful firefighters.

“The guys were great — they were so excited and enthusiastic,” Thorstenson said. “Enthusiasm like that only spreads.

Reporter Justin Arnold: 425-339-3432 or jarnold@heraldnet.com.