By Jack Guerino
ADAMS, Mass. — A family in need this season got a visit from some local Santas: the Alert Hose Company.
But rather than by reindeer-drawn sleigh, the gifts arrived by fire truck this past Sunday morning.
Fire Chief Paul Goyette said this year the Fire Department sponsored a family through the Berkshire Community Action Center Elf program.
"They asked us to sponsor a family and instill some Christmas cheer to a local family," he said. "So we purchased some gifts and delivered them to a family."
Goyette said this is the first time the Fire Department has sponsored a family through the Elf program.
The donations also had a secondary purpose he said, because it is important, especially for children, to see firefighters outside of emergencies.
"A lot of the time when a fire truck shows up, it is not for a good reason and this was a good way for us to show that we are just people," he said. "The family had two young boys and we drove up and wanted to show them that we are not only here to protect them but to help out in other ways and spread some cheer and joy."
Goyette said it is important to the Alert Hose Company to give back to the community.
"We are always willing to help out in any situation or when anyone is in need," he said. "We want to give back to the community that has always helped us out."