Looking for a bluesy way to get into the Christmas spirit?
The Burnaby firefighters’ union is hosting its annual pancake breakfast fundraiser for the Christmas Bureau this Thursday, and legendary blues performer Jim Byrnes will be performing.
In exchange for an unwrapped toy or cash donation, people can fill up on pancakes and take in the show from 6 to 10 a.m. at the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown.
“It would be great to see as many local people as possible,” said Rob Lamoureux, president of the In-ternational Association of Firefighters Local 323. “It goes back to the local people, the kids in need. … They could use the help. That’s what we’re all about, just trying to give back to the people we serve here in Burnaby.”
Cash donations go to the CKNW Orphans’ Fund, and toys got to the Burnaby Christmas Bureau, a local program that makes sure low-income families have toys and food for the holidays.
Last year’s event drew more than 500 people and roughly a truckload of donated toys. For people in a rush to get to work, there are also muffins and coffee to go.
“We’re really excited to be participating again this year,” said Stephen D’ Souza, executive director of Burnaby Community Services, the organization that facilitates the bureau. “It helps us fill out the toy room with a number of great toys.”
This is our fourth annual pancake breakfast for the firefighters’ union. The Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services band and Burnaby South Secondary’s jazz band will also play at the event.
“I think Burnaby Community Services does a good job getting out in the community, and this year, I think we’ll be able to help even more kids by partnering with the CKNW Orphans’ Fund,” Lamoureux said.
The Hilton Vancouver Metrotown is at 6083 McKay Ave.
