By Lizzy Donker, BCN intern.

The Richmond Hill Fire Department is partnering with Trillium United to do a calendar fundraiser this spring.

All of the proceeds from the fundraiser will to Operation Presents Under the Tree, according to Richmond Hill Fire Chief Brendon Greene.

Operation Presents Under the Tree is a program that the Richmond Hill Fire Department started almost five years ago.

The program began as a way to help families in need around the holidays.

Since it’s inception, RHFD’s been able to do a lot – from helping families pay medical bills for children with cancer, to helping move a homeless family.

And while on the subject of fundraisers for Operation Presents Under the Tree, the Department also annually holds its Spring Fling. What started off as a simple barbecue, has grown into an annual event with vendors, rides, entertainment- even a celebrity kiss the pig. All proceeds from the event go to Operation Presents Under the Tree.

Greene said since the event has been canceled for the last two years, the Fire Department is hoping to see everyone for this event at JF Gregory Park on April 30.

Greene said the Department’s program has helped over 100 families already, and with the upcoming calendar fundraiser and Spring Fling, there’ll be more help out there for folks who need it.

“We really do appreciate the community’s support, and we take great pride in it”, says Chief Greene.

As for when RHFD’s calendars will be ready, what they’ll look like and where you’ll be able to buy one, stay tuned.