Dan LaLone
Contributing Writer
(Courtesy photo – Part of being a firefighter is education about fire dangers, for young and old alike.)
The Hamlin Township Firefighter’s Association, in partnership with Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed, will host a fire truck and car show fundraiser, Saturday, June 6, at Hamlin Township Park.
The event, the first of its kind for the association, is planned for residents of all ages with a day of vehicles, food, and family-friendly fun.
Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed, a program dedicated to supporting firefighters battling cancer, will partner with the association for the event.
Firefighters face a higher risk of cancer due to their work, and the program has assisted local firefighters and members of the Hamlin Township Fire Board. The collaboration allows residents to support both local initiatives and statewide firefighter health programs.
The event will feature fire trucks alongside local show cars and trucks, and attendees can vote for their favorite fire truck or show car.
Vehicle staging begins at 8 a.m., weather permitting, with the show opening to the public at 10 a.m. and running until about 2 p.m.
Food trucks and vendors will offer a variety of options.
Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed will collect returnable bottles, cans, and spare change and provide information about its programs for firefighters and the public.
Donations can be made directly to the Hamlin Township Firefighter’s Association, Neighbors United, or split between the two organizations to benefit firefighters locally and across Michigan.
Hamlin Township firefighters will be on hand to speak with attendees, and Smokey Bear will provide fire safety tips. Other local fire departments are expected to participate.
The association is also raising funds to introduce a Fire Pup costume, a fun, approachable character aimed at teaching children about fire safety.
Organizers hope Fire Pup will become a familiar presence at parades and community gatherings, helping build relationships with young residents while reinforcing safety lessons.
“We hope neighbors will come out, enjoy the vehicles, and learn more about programs that help first responders and their families,” a spokesperson said.
The association hopes the event will grow into an annual tradition, celebrating the dedication of local firefighters and the residents who support them.
The Hamlin Township Firefighter’s Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit made up of active firefighters, retirees, and their spouses.
Separate from the township’s fire department, the association raises funds to support first responders with snacks during long emergency calls, fitness equipment, station apparel, and community outreach projects.
These projects include Fourth of July parade candy, school supplies for local students, and winter gear for residents in need.
For information about the event, the car show, the Hamlin Township Firefighter’s Association, or Walk for the Red, visit HamlinFireRescue.com and WalkForTheRed.org.
