Greenbrier County is no stranger to natural disasters. Two major storms have hit the county just within the last decade, including the derecho of 2012 and the 2016 flood. These storms caused loss of life and loss of property. Fortunately, Greenbrier County first responders were there every step of the way to help out those who needed it the most. So, when local first responders heard about the devastating tornadoes that hit Kentucky in December, they knew what Kentucky first responders were facing, especially those who had lost their own homes.
Often, while first responders are out helping their community, they are going through their own personal suffering, said Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department Lt. Bart Baker.
“First responders still have to go to work,” he added, noting that sometimes they don’t get the help they need right away.
For this reason, the Greenbrier County First Responders Association has decided to help Kentucky first responders who experienced loss due to the tornadoes through a Fill-The-Boot drive.
The drive is scheduled to take place on January 14 and 15 at locations throughout Greenbrier County. It was originally scheduled to take place January 7 and 8, but due to the predicted snowfall amount, Baker said that they have decided to reschedule.
Participating in the boot drive will be members of Greenbrier County fire departments, law enforcement officers, 911 dispatchers and emergency medical services personnel.
In addition to the boot drive, an account has been set up at City National Bank for those who wish to donate money to Kentucky first responders.
Community residents may visit any City National Bank location throughout Greenbrier County and make a donation to the Greenbrier First Responders for Kentucky account, Baker stated.
“We want to put money directly into the hands of first responders,” Baker said. “We are not going to keep one penny of the money that we raise. It is all going to help them.”
“In 2012 and 2016, everybody came from everywhere to help us out,” Baker added. “Now, it’s our turn to give back.”
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