THUNDER BAY –Dylan Patterson is used to the challenges that come with being a firefighter.
Every December, he finds himself in a situation that training doesn’t really prepare you for.
He and other members of the Thunder Bay Professional Firefighters Association work as servers at both Boston Pizza locations as they raise funds for their Toys for Tots campaign.
“This isn’t my forte,” Patterson said with a laugh.
“I’m a pretty hands-on guy but I’m still working on my social skills. That small talk is a knack, that’s for sure. You really got to give it to the people who are here serving people on a daily basis. It’s not the easiest thing to do.”
This is the 15th year that firefighters have been guest servers at the Boston Pizza locations on Arthur Street and Memorial Avenue.
Guests are encouraged to make donations to the Toys for Tots campaign, which are matched by Boston Pizza.
The restaurants will also donate 10 per cent of their sales from Wednesday’s event.
Sharon Mercier, who is the community relations coordinator for Boston Pizza in Thunder Bay, said the restaurant hopes to raise $5,000 this year and add to the over $65,000 that has been brought in for the campaign over the last decade-and-a-half.
“This all started when a firefighter named John Doughty came up to us with this idea and we said ‘Sure, let’s do it,’” Mercier added.
“It’s been so well-received over the years. At Christmas time, it’s always about the kids. So to be able to give to the Toys for Tots campaign and know that you’re helping kids receive a gift is the most heartwarming part of the day.”
Patterson said that another highlight of the day is seeing the reaction from people when they learn that a firefighter will be serving them food and drinks.
“Everybody gets a smile when we’re around and we’re very appreciative that we’re well-accepted by the community,” Patterson added.
The firefighters will be serving meals at both locations from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The public can make donations to the Toys for Tots campaign until Dec. 22.
More information on the campaign can be found on the Toys for Tots website.
