First Responders ring bells for donations

The Salvation Army held its annual First Responders Challenge. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Bread of Life-Hope Center of Portage County.

The First Responder Challenge is the largest bell-ringing event during the Red Kettle Season.

Members from the Stevens Point Police and Fire Departments, Dewey Fire Department and EMS, Plover Fire and Rescue Department, Plover Police Department, Portage County Sheriff, Amherst Fire District and the Wisconsin State Patrol all participated this year.

This event has happened for more than 30 years. It’s not just a fun and friendly competition among those who serve the Portage County community, but also a way to unite people in raising funds for the Bread of Life’s Red Kettle Campaign.

Each year, a trophy is awarded to the department that raises the most money. An engraved plaque with the winning department’s name and the year is added to the trophy. The Plover Fire Department has claimed the trophy for the past three years.

The Stevens Point Fire Department was ringing bells at Fleet Farm this year and have been involved with this event for more than a decade.

“This is such a good cause and we bring our own family to ring with us. This is a family thing, not just for the workers,” said Stevens Point Division Chief Anthony Ewing. “It’s a friendly competition between the fire, police and state troopers in Portage County and everything goes to a good cause.”

Portage County Sheriff’s Office had members ringing bells at Metro Market in Stevens Point.

“It’s the biggest fundraiser they have and it’s a great opportunity for us as well to get out and about with the public,” said Sheriff Mike Lukas.

“I like coming to events and helping out with my dad, it’s always fun and even though it’s cold out, it’s for a good cause,” said Finley Ostrowski, daughter of Capt. Joshua Ostrowksi with the sheriff’s office.

Many family members were at the bell ringing in support of their spouse, parent or friend.

“It’s just such a fun competition that you don’t mind being out in the cold,” said Stevens Point fire Division Chief Terrence Sinner.

Responders not only compete for a trophy but help support those in need within the community.

While it is a friendly competition, the Stevens Point Fire Department said they are going to win this year and bring home that trophy along with bragging rights. But they are not the only ones who think they are winning.

“We are definitely going to win,” said Lukas.

However, the Plover Fire Department also thinks they are going to win and bring the trophy home for the fourth year in a row.

The 2024 Red Kettle Campaign will run until Dec 24.

This year they have set a higher goal due to inflation and the growing needs within the community. There are several ways to help give back throughout the season, such as signing up to be a bell ringer at RegistertoRing.com, mail in a donation or visit in person: The Salvation Army – Hope Center, 1600 Briggs St.. Stevens Point, or text StevensPoint to 24365.