Fullerton Firefighters Adopt Family for the Holidays

A few days before Christmas, a fire truck will leave Fullerton's Station 8 on a mission. Not to put out a fire, or save a life, but to deliver presents to a family in need and brighten their holiday season.

Two shifts of firefighters from the Fullerton station have adopted families this holiday season.

"In these tough economic times, we were looking for a way to help out people in the community," said Fullerton shift commander Thomas Ramey.

Ramey's shift adopted a family through Elmwood Elementary school and another shift at the firehouse has adopted a family through Fullerton Elementary school.

"We just contacted the guidance counselor and asked for someone they knew could use the help," Ramey said.

The 13 firefighters on Ramey's shift took up a collection, passing around a fireman's hat, and then went to the Baltimore County Professional Firefighters Association for additional funds.

The family adopted by Ramey's shift only asked for the simplest comforts.

"We were told that they need blankets, and a hand mixer to make mashed potatoes," Ramey said.

"It really puts a different perspective on things when you hear that," said firefighter Angie Hughes, who will do the shopping for her shift. Hughes said she plans to get toys for the children who range in age from 8 to 18, as well as the items they requested.

"Then we'll head down there with the truck to deliver to them," Ramey said.