OWL VFD Help Make Christmas Brighter for Children at Potomac Hospital

From Occoquan Woodbridge Lorton Volunteer Fire Department:

On Christmas Eve, when most children are anxiously awaiting Santa’s arrival, crews from O.W.L. V.F.D. visited children at Potomac Hospital and brought gifts and smiles with them. Toys that were delivered too late to make the Toys for Tots drive, were rounded up from OWL stations and brought to kids who won’t be spending Christmas at home. 

“It’s hard enough for kids to be in the hospital,“ said Assistant Chief Wayne Haight, “but at Christmas, it’s even harder.”  We wanted to bring a little bit of joy and something to take their mind off their situation.”

Nearly 20 gifts were delivered to the pediatric wing as well as the emergency room. The kids got to spend Christmas Eve with a firefighter and a chance to forget about being in the hospital, at least for a while. 

“As first responders, we see people at some of the worst times in their lives, and most times never know the final outcome.” said Firefighter Maurico (Mo) Ching.  “This is one of the times where we get to be involved in a non-emergency setting, and bring a little happiness to kids and their parents.”

OWL VFD crews are covering the entire holiday, from 6 p.m. Dec. 22 until 6 a.m. Dec. 27.  

OWL VFD is one the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in the United States with over 300 members. OWL VFD provides fire suppression, EMS care, and rescue services to 80,000 residents in our 27-square mile area through the operation of three fire stations. OWL volunteer Firefighters and EMTs work the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift, five days a week, plus 24/7 holidays and weekends.

 For more information on OWL VFD, visit www.owlvfd.org or become a fan on Facebook at Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department.