07 Dec 2015 Central Arkansas Firefighters conduct Christmas Boot Drive

The 18th annual Central Arkansas Firefighters Christmas Boot Drive is under way.

Organizer Billie Carter urges individuals to join in the Christmas spirit of giving and help firefighters help the needy children of Central Arkansas. “This campaign helps make possible a great Christmas for those in our community that are less fortunate,” he said.

This year, organizers are dedicating their campaign to the late Conway firefighter Wayne Hartness, with hopes of pushing the total amount collected over the years to half a million dollars.

According to Carter, the Christmas Boot Drive has grown each year. “Last year, more than 1,100 children from more than 270 families were helped throughout the county, and every year those numbers grow.”

Since it started in 1998, the campaign has raised more than $444,000 and touched the lives of more than 12,000 children and their families. “It is all possible because of the loyal citizens of Faulkner County.”

Firefighters will be holding boots at several locations in Conway including Conway Commons, Conway Towne Center, Kroger (Salem Road), Hastings/First Service Bank on the Old Morrilton Highway; in Greenbrier at Harp’s, Fred’s, Cash Saver and Walmart Neighborhood Market; and in Vilonia at Hwy. 64 and 107.

The last collection date is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12.

Boots have also been placed in businesses throughout Faulkner County and will be available through Friday, Dec. 11. A boot is located at the 501 LIFE office at 701 Chestnut St. in Downtown Conway. Toys will also be accepted at the 501 office.

Donations can also be mailed to Central Arkansas Firefighters Christmas Boot Drive, P.O. Box 2546, Conway, AR 72033.