Firefighters endeavor to feed families in Murchison

More than 30 families will enjoy a Thanksgiving feast this year, thanks to the combined efforts of area firefighters and churches. Mike Sullivan, of the Murchison Volunteer Fire Department, got the effort rolling about three months ago.

“I thought it would be best if we gave back a little to the community,” Sullivan said. “I thought it went pretty well. It’s going to be a pretty good-sized meal, too. There’s going to be a big 15-pound turkey with all the trimmings.”

Sullivan attends Murchison First Baptist Church, along with North 19 Fire Rescue member Lisa Huffman. Huffman enlisted North 19 in the project.

“Lisa did a fabulous job. We worked together on it,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan and Huffman chose 16 names from the Murchison area, and 16 from the area served by North 19.

“Since North 19 doesn’t represent one city, we went to the Food Pantry to find the names of local families,” Huffman said. “With the economy like it is, there are a lot of people in need this year. I’m sure the Food Pantry will have a hard time feeding everyone this time.”

Sullivan contacted First Baptist Murchison and Murchison United Methodist for names of people they had helped though the year.

“When people need help, they usually go to the church,” Sullivan said.

The churches also donated food items like potatoes, canned goods and rolls to be boxed, along with the turkeys.

“People were willing to help out, and it all came together,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan’s helpers picked up the turkeys Monday morning to distribute to the recipients.

“The food was taken to the First Baptist Church of Murchison to be boxed and distributed,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan said plans are also underway to help families at Christmas.
By Rich Flowers in The Athens Review