Bags were flying last weekend at the Columbian Club Hall in McGregor as a way to help community causes.
The Amherstburg Fire Association (AFA) held its second annual “Fire in the Hole” cornhole tournament last Saturday. AFA president Cameron Arksey said the number of participants this year was similar to what it was at the first tournament in 2023.
Arksey stated there were 31 teams of two – 62 people in all – that took part in the second annual cornhole tournament.
There were $1,100 in cash prizes given out with an additional $300 won through their 50/50 raffle. About a dozen firefighters were on hand either assisting or playing in the tournament.
“This is a fundraising event. We raise money for community causes,” said Arksey.
The AFA raised a lot of its revenue for the “Fire in the Hole” tournament through sponsors, with sponsorships available in the gold, silver and bronze levels. The association will decide where to direct the funds, with Arksey noting they have assisted families with medical needs, non-profit organizations such as The House Youth Centre, local athletes and to purchase toys for their Stuff-a-Fire Truck event.
“We do a bursary for North Star High School,” he added.
They have also helped firefighters in Windsor who developed cancer and “anything else we can do to soften” what families and groups have to endure. The AFA also raised money earlier this year in their Polar Plunge event, with that going to help Special Olympians.
“We’re all starting to develop a reputation in the community,” he added.
The Amherstburg Fire Department is helpful, said Arksey, noting fire chief Michael Mio has been encouraging the association’s efforts.
The AFA’s Stuff-A-Fire Truck toy drive is accepting toys and gift cards for children and youth up to 16-years-old. Proceeds help families in need at Christmas with Arksey stating they helped 66 families and 166 children and youth last year. Drop-off locations include Movati Athletic, Joe Meloche Ford and Canadian Tire or at Amherstburg Fire Station #1.
“If anyone wants to donate, they can reach out to us,” he said.
Arksey said they appreciate people’s desire to give back. The gift and toy drive is done in collaboration with Lola’s Pajama Fairy Project, the Big Toy Dump and the Windsor Police COAST program.
For more information or for a family in need to register, visit www.aburgfireassoc.ca/toydrive.
By Ron Giofu
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