Local movement encourages Firefighter support
by Loni Rahm – information compiled from Instagram, Facebook and LCN
Time and time again during wildfires and in other times of need, NCW communities have shown how incredibly generous they are.
When a call goes out for a specific item that is needed, organizers are often overwhelmed by the response. If a displaced family needs a crib, there will probably be a dozen provided. When livestock needs to be moved out of harm’s way, a caravan of trucks and trailers will be assembled within minutes. When firefighters are discouraged and weary, there are signs and banners of encouragement and appreciation lining the streets and highways.
Because of COVID-19, many generous offers of support and sustenance traditionally provided have been denied. Organizations can’t accept donations of fresh baked goodies and personal items that have been offered by grateful residents in the past. While firefighters are always well stocked with water bottles, food, and other necessities, it’s the personal touch that has been harder to come by.
Kristen Wall with Only7Seconds found a way to reach out in a very personal way. She developed a letter writing campaign with the hope of gathering 100 hand written letters and creating 100 care packages to send to firefighters during a time when there are thousands fighting to keep people and their property safe.
Only7Seconds is best described as a positive mindset movement. The idea is to take just several seconds of your time to reach out and make sure someone knows they’re appreciated.
“It’s been an exhausting season for firefighters and first responders,” said Wall on social media. “The Firefighters and Hotshots that are working around the clock to save our homes, land, and businesses, are hero’s – but, they are also human.”
“Let’s bridge the gap and let these amazing firefighters know that their work is valuable, they are needed, and we see them in the midst of their weary, tired, and stretched-thin moments,” said Wall.
Only7Seconds is asking for 100 letters to send to firefighters. It only takes a few minutes to write “Thank you for the job you are doing. We appreciate you.”
Completed letters and cards can be sent to:
Only7Seconds, PO Box 1180, Chelan, WA 98816
You can also donate money to send a care package to firefighters. Wall’s goal was to send 100 care packages; within a few days, she had exceeded donations to cover over 80 care packages. The letters and notes will be inserted into the care packages. Here’s how you can participate.
For additional information about Only7Seconds, please visit their website.
Only7Seconds is a mindset movement challenging individuals to use their abilities to intentionally fight against isolation.
Related LCN Stories:
5/7/19: Only 7-seconds – an Antidote for Isolation
