Commissioner of Fire & Emergency Services, Shane Baker, on behalf of the Town of Richmond Hill, will receive a donation from Michael Sossin, past President of the Optimist Club

To assist the Fire Department in its public education programs for children (aged four to 12)

At Station #8-1, 191 Major Mackenzie Drive West (at Yonge Street)

At 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2009

For the past 15 years, the Optimist Club has been contributing annually to the Town’s fire education programs for children and to date has donated more than $25,000.

The funds donated by the Optimist Club this year will be used to purchase items, such as colouring books and rulers, with safety messages, that are distributed to children when fire prevention staff conduct interactive information sessions at schools.

Meeting the needs of young people in communities worldwide, Optimist Clubs have been "Bringing Out the Best in Kids" since 1919 and conducting positive service projects aimed at providing a helping hand to youth.

In addition to school visits, the Fire Department provides public tours, demonstrations and training lectures that emphasize fire safety and also conducts an annual Open House in October for the community with fire safety demonstrations as well as family fun activities.