mentorfirerescuetheneedyMentor firefighters will be presenting the Salvation Army with a check and non-perishable food items raised at their annual Rescue the Needy Food Drive.

Mentor firefighters collected cash and non-perishable food items at the Northeast entrance of the Great Lakes Mall on November 7th and 8th.  Through the generosity of donors, they were able to raise $5,131.00 and a trunk full of food.

The Rescue the Needy Food Drive has been held every year for the past 20 years and has raised over $100,000  during that span of time. Mentor firefighters have worked with a number of organizations over the years. This is their fourth year of donating to the Salvation Army.

“It’s important for us to help those in our community in need. The Salvation Army has been a great partner over the years and ensures that the money and food raised stays in Lake County,” says Firemedic Dominic Vivolo, who along with Lt. Mike Smith, started the program back in 1994.

Mentor Fire Chief, Robert Searles, adds, “I am privileged to be able to work not only with firefighters who care about their community, but also, to work in a community who care so much about the needs of others.”

The check presentation will occur on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 at 9:00 AM at the Salvation Army of Painesville & Lake County located at 69 Pearl Street in Painesville.