TAMPA – Hillsborough County’s firefighters and deputies spent Oct. 2 giving back to the community during the third annual Family Fun Day at Raymond James Stadium.
Children climbed aboard fire trucks, explored sheriff’s vehicles and watched the bomb squad robot in action, while first responders mingled with families, answering questions and sharing stories.
Organized by Hillsborough County Firefighters Local 2294 and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the event gave the community a chance to meet their local heroes outside of emergencies and enjoy a day packed with hands-on activities and entertainment.
“This event allows us to engage with families in a meaningful way,” said Tim Pearson, president of Hillsborough County Firefighters Local 2294. “Seeing kids’ faces light up when they meet a firefighter or a deputy reminds us why building trust and connection with the community is so important.”
Guests also enjoyed live music, backyard games, face painting, train rides, bounce houses and a spirited cornhole tournament that had Hillsborough County Firefighters and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office teams competing for bragging rights (firefighters won).
Many attendees contributed to the Hillsborough County Firefighters Toy Drive for Sincerely Santa, sharing unwrapped toys to brighten the holidays for local children.
“Our goal is to bring joy, gratitude and unity to our community,” said Chris Boles, executive director at Hillsborough County Firefighter Charities. “It was a day filled with fun activities that allowed first responders to show our appreciation for the people who support us every day.”
As an event sponsor, the Pepin Family Foundation helped connect the community with the heroes who serve them. The foundation focuses on supporting initiatives that strengthen mental health and resiliency programs for Tampa Bay’s first responders.
Additional supporters included Hillsborough County Firefighter Charities, RedSpeed, HCA Florida, The Finley Group, BeneCom and Kroger.
