SD Gunner Fund, a local nonprofit based out of Richmond Hill, is primarily known for training service dogs in the area. This Christmas, they wanted to surprise individuals with an early Christmas blessing.

 “We received word that many families in the area were having a hard time and we wanted to see if we could help,” said Britnee Kinard, founder of SD Gunner Fund. “2020 has been extremely difficult for so many families in our area. A parent should never have to worry about providing their family with a Christmas meal or presents under the tree. I have personally been in that situation and it’s a feeling you cannot describe. So we reached out to the community and they delivered."

SD Gunner Fund partnered with Fia Rua, a Richmond Hill restaurant, to provide over 55 individuals with a full traditional Christmas meal. The meals were available for pickup at Fia Rua on Christmas Eve.

The Richmond Hill Fire Department and Howe 2 Run provided Christmas presents for over 20 children.

The Teresa Cowart Team was onsite to help deliver the meals and the presents to all of the recipients, while also providing over 35 adults with gift cards to go towards personal gifts for themselves.

 “A big thank you goes out to our amazing community,” said Elena Nock, SD Gunner Fund volunteer. "Warren Fair, the owner of Fia Rua, has been amazing to work with and we are so grateful to him for his partnership. The Richmond Hill Fire Department and Howe 2 Run are going to make so many children smile this Christmas. This is what Christmas is all about. Tis the Season for Giving!”