It is not unusual for routine occurrences to go unnoticed by all of us on a daily basis. Our daily lives are filled with activities from dawn to dusk, with occasional disturbance from our routine. We often don’t notice the police patrolling our neighborhood, the fire stations strategically located within the community, or the 911 operators always ready for the next call. Yet, they are there... and they are always there because of the dedication of a few heroic men and women that proudly serve as first responders within Roswell and the neighboring communities.
To honor those that protect and serve Roswell, local businesses have come together to recognize Roswell’s finest and bravest on National First Responders Day, October 28, by providing over 200 boxed lunches to the Roswell’s police, fire and 911 operators.
Roswell’s Houck’s Grille is leading this effort to raise awareness and money for these lunches to be delivered on October 28. Jeff Fischer, a retired UPS executive and co-owner of Houck’s Grille, sees this as an opportunity, in a small but meaningful way, to show his appreciation to those that make Roswell safe. "Without their dedication, we would not be the great community we are. Roswell is an amazing place to raise a family and have a business, and these first responders are a big part of it," says Jeff.
One of the main sponsors last year and again this year is the owner of local franchise 1-800 Water Damage of North Fulton, Ron Wilder. He and his family are participating as part of the Restoring Kindness Movement, which is focused on bringing peace of mind back, not only to physical places like homes and businesses their company restores, but also to the people they serve by helping them. “Since my company had been already participating in the Restoring Kindness campaign, we jumped in right when Houck’s Grille made their announcement last year and we are eager to do so again,” says Ron.
Other small businesses are invited to join to sponsor the lunches that will be made by Houck’s Grille and delivered by all the sponsors to the Roswell Police Department.
Roswell Officer Kianda Pritchett coordinated with Mr. Fischer last year and is helping out again this year with Officer Tim Lupo. “We were deeply encouraged last year and truly thankful for the effort made by Mr. Fischer and Mr. Wilder. We’re very appreciative that they have decided to do it again," says Officer Pritchett, community relations officer.
How you can observe this day:
- Say thanks -- Whether it's getting your family to write personalized thank you cards or baking some cookies for local police or firefighters, there are many ways to share your gratitude.
- Raise money -- Research how to help finance equipment and resources for first responders. Help those who dare to risk it all.
- Volunteer -- Donate your own time and support. Take a CPR course, if possible.
Roswell by the numbers:
• Police: 185 Full-time, 6 part-time
• Fire: 23 Full-time, 198 part-time
• 911: 29 Full-time, 3 part-time
• 911 calls/events: 108,688 in 2020 and 123,723 in 2021