By Judy Alvarez
(Los Angeles, California) – On Monday, January 13, the Salesian Family Youth Center (SFYC) Girl Scout Troop #82563 expressed gratitude and solidarity towards the Los Angeles City Fire Department, Station 2 firefighters. Under the guidance of Miriam Hernandez, the Girl Scout leader, the troop moved into action. They gathered donations of Gatorade, protein shakes, snacks, water, and wipes to show gratitude for the brave firefighters protecting their community.
Other Salesian youth and adults in the community also contributed donations. According to Luis Chacon, the CYM at the SFYC, “the children from the after-school program wrote heartfelt letters filled with motivational messages for the firefighters, cheering them on in their brave work.” Mothers from the Don Bosco Club of St. Isabel also contributed needed supplies.
The encounter between the Girl Scouts and the firefighters at Department #2 was heartwarming. The troop was welcomed and allowed to talk to the firefighters, ask questions, see their firefighting uniforms, get their autographs, and explore the fire truck and ambulance. In short, the firefighters were treated like “rock stars,” and the girls brought abundant cheer to these dedicated first responders.
Words of gratitude were expressed by all who participated. “It was a great experience for the girls and the parents. Teaching our little ones to be empathetic, compassionate, and giving through the grace of God is what it is all about,” said Iris Ponce, the parent whose idea helped prompt this service.