From the heart, for the heart

Jun. 13—After more than a year of fundraising, the goal of a big community project meant to aid local firefighters in obtaining automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for all fire trucks was finally accomplished.

This past Monday, members from Helping Hands of Sampson County, The Grateful Shed and Tim's Gift met up with first responders at their new Emergency Services Center building on Fontana Street. That morning they arrived with a delivery in the form of two brand new AEDs, something EMS Director Richard Sauer said will be a great benefit to the community.

"It's a life-saving tool that won't only help us, but everyone," he said. "As we were talking about, we've had a couple saves with these devices. The closer AEDs are to where they're needed, the quicker response there'll be and that increases the likelihood of having a save. So it's an important tool that is beneficial to the community."

Sauer also thanked the community for its support because without that help, they wouldn't have been able to readily get the AEDs.

"I also have to thank the community for all they've done and the amount of support we get — it's tremendous," he said. "Sometimes there's a lack of tax dollars available for some some equipment and things that we need. So when we have that committee support, it's bringing everybody together."

The project itself began last year when concerned members from these community organizations found out that all fire trucks weren't equipped with AEDs. Realizing the seriousness on the absence of this device, they banded together to remedy the issue. This sparked a number of community fundraisers such as the Helping Hands of Sampson County BBQ plate sale in March of 2022 that sold over 1,600 plates. Now with the AEDs finally donated, all their efforts have come to fruition.

On the day of the AED donation, Becky Spell of Tim's Gift and Terry Lee from "The Shed Heads" of The Grateful Shed were present as representatives. The two of them shared words on behalf of their respective groups on what it's meant to be a part of this project.

"Tim's Gift is just very humbled to be a part of this, and not only this event but others that will be coming and that we have been involved in in the past," Spell said. "We feel that it's been a blessing sent from God. When Terry and The Shed Heads, Chris and Helping Hands and Tim's Gift and our volunteers come together, we support one another."

"We're just thrilled to be a part of this," Lee said. "You can tell how important first responders are and they can get overlooked somewhat at times. So to be able to join hand-in-hand with Helping Hands and Tim's Gift to do this means a lot to us."

"Also, it's more than just being at an event, it's a call, a text, a card that just says we're thinking off you and we support what you're doing," Spell added. "And, as Terry and Chris both alluded to, this is not about us. It's about being in a position where somebody has to take a stand and if God has chosen us to be leaders, we do it with humility and honor to God."

"We want to see Sampson County shine and, if everybody gets on board, we can make a positive difference in our community."

Even though they've finished this mission these groups are far from being done with aiding first responders and are already planning their next big fundraiser. The next event is fast approaching and is set for June 24-25 at Hubb's Farm.

On those days, the Helping Hands of Sampson County Committee is planning a two-day festival to celebrate the local heroes who are our first responders. The event, simply called Fair Day, kicks off that Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from 1 to 6 p.m. that Sunday. The event will feature food, carnival-style rides, all the activities at Hubb's Farm, games and more.

Admission for all first responders is free for the entire day. For all others ages 2 and older, there will be an entry fee, however, immediate family members of first responders will have access to a special discount.

Since Helping Hands of Sampson County Chairwoman Chris Sessoms is one of the brains behind these operations, she shared details into why they do what they do. Her inspiration came following the tragic execution-style murder of Texas Deputy Darren H. Goforth in 2015.

"Helping Hands started when the officer in Texas was pumping gas and got shot because he had a uniform on and there was no other reason," she said. "He actually left a wife and two children behind and my heart broke when I heard it. So my thoughts afterwords were, I can't do anything nationwide, but I can do something county wise and that's when Helping Hands started. It was simply a way to let these people know they're appreciated and loved. So this is a positive way to shake their hand and just encourage them because we all need some encouragement sometimes."

While this event will have plenty of fun, Sessoms also noted that that's not the only reason for it as there's an educational aspect as well. That day, a member from EMS will be present to inform the public on the new defibrillators they received and just how important they are. There will also be fire trucks, rescue squads, sheriff cars and even helicopters on scene.

"We just want people to be able to actually see the things that these people do," Sessoms said. "It's not just a fun event for the family, it's also an educating event. That being said, we are just so excited for the event and hope that it can become the biggest one held at Hubb's yet. It's meant for everyone and for our first responders of all kinds — from doctors and nurse to even the dog catchers. Anybody that helps anyone in a tragedy, that becomes a first responder, this event is a thank you for you."

"Thank you for your commitment and sacrifices," Sessoms remarked. "We look forward to celebrating your contributions and providing an enjoyable day for you and your family."

Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.hubbsfarmsnc.com. More information on the event along with details on the special discount for first responders families will be there too.

Sessoms also mentioned they are look for sponsorships at all levels to help with the event. A couple included sponsoring a ride or inflatable for $4,000 or sponsoring a first responders for $15, which cover their day and a meal. They're looking for volunteers of all kinds as well. For more information regarding any of those avenues, Sessoms said to reach out to her directly at hairchris4@gmail.com.

Donations for the event are also being accepted. Sessoms said to make donation checks, which are tax-deductible, payable to SCSAC with "Helping Hands" noted in the memo line. They can be mailed to SCSAC PO Box 475 Clinton, NC 28323.

On the day of the event, they will be trying to raise money for more defibrillators they wish to purchase for other various places of need throughout the county. Sauer even highlighted that EMS in general needs another five alone. There'll be a donation box on location and Sessoms said to write defibrillators in the memo line for those checks so they know where the money needs to go.

"Together, we can make this festival a memorable event that truly honors our local heroes," Sessoms stated.

Reach Michael B. Hardison at 910-249-4231. Follow us on Twitter at @SamsponInd, like us on Facebook, and check out our Instagram at @thesampsonindependent.