Annual Christmas Fund Continues to Grow

McKENZIE — McKenzie Police Department and McKenzie Fire/Rescue Department continue their fund-raising efforts to support the second annual Christmas Fund for underprivileged children of the community.

Hometown Hangout and the first responders had a very successful fundraiser over the weekend when the local restaurant and the first responders joined efforts to raise funds. A total of $1993.55 was raised on Saturday as firefighters and police officers canvassed the diners for tips and the restaurant donated $500 from proceeds from sales of ice cream, and dine-in and take-out food orders. The first responders assisted the table runners in delivering the food to the patrons, said Drew Beeler, owner of Hometown Hangout.

The children really enjoyed seeing the fire trucks and police cars, said Beeler.

Beeler said this is the second year for Hometown Hangout to participate in the event.

McKenzie Police Chief Ryan White said the first responders and others conduct fund raisers throughout the year. Lacey Lane organized a shoot at the Carroll County Sports Shooting Park that was very fruitful in the fund-raising effort. First responders had a dunking booth and a raffle during the Ice Tea Festival.

In total, the fund is now approximately $16,000 to carry 40 children on a shopping trip on December 19.

Beta Sigma Phi with its Angel Tree project assists in identifying the children. Chief White said the first responders donate some of the funds to Beta Sigma Phi for their efforts.

Chief White thanked everyone who assisted with the fundraiser at Hometown Hangout.