Some frontline workers are doing what they can to make birthdays fun again.
The North Bay Police Service (NBPS), North Bay Professional Firefighters Association, North Bay Fire Department and the Callander Fire Department have all teamed up with local McDonald’s restaurants to offer up some birthday cheer.
Until May 12, parents or guardians of children who are celebrating a birthday up to the age of 10 can arrange to have police cruiser and firetruck visit the child’s home for a birthday greeting. The emergency vehicles will “light it up” for them by activating their lights and sirens. A token will also be presented to the child on behalf of the police association employee fund, which includes a chance to win a birthday party at McDonald’s when physical distancing restrictions are lifted.
The idea was born out of a meeting between North Bay Police Association President Aaron Northup and Mike Gillies, the president of the North Bay Firefighters Association.
“There was no need to sell this to our frontline counterparts. Everyone wants to bring some happiness to our children during these trying times,” Northup explained.
“It is rewarding to see frontline members volunteer and show compassion to those who are adversely affected by the current restrictions that we live with,” NBPS Chief Scott Tod said. “To give children the feeling of a community celebrating along with their birthdays is truly an honourable act of generosity.”
To have a police cruiser or firetruck visit your child for their birthday, contact Sergeant Jody deHaas at 705-497-5555 ext. 227, or by email at [email protected].
