Fire truck pull in Brockville raises funds for local YMCA

 

With the tremendous efforts of the Hudson Family, Burnbrae Farms and a host of sponsors and donors, this year’s 10th Anniversary George E. Smith Memorial Fire Truck Pull once again proved to be a great success.

This year’s event drew 19 teams from across Ontario and Quebec, each taking turns pulling a fully loaded fire truck the length of the YMCA parking lot. Spectators got to cheer on their favourite teams while enjoying a BBQ generously donated by Brockville Hyundai and some live music from the local band Sweetleaf.

Funds raised go to the YMCA’s Financial Assistance Program, which provides support to those in our community who would not otherwise be able to access the Y’s healthy and inclusive programs and services.  To date the event has raised $75,000 of the YMCA’s $110,000 goal, with contributions continuing to come in.  
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“In 2024, your Y has provided subsidies to one in three children to help them attend summer camp and to one in four individuals to support them in improving their physical and mental wellbeing,” said Rob Adams, CEO of the YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “In addition to this many of our programs now include a food component and last year we served over 33,000 meals to at risk youth and teens in our communities.”

This year marked a significant change, as in consultation with both families, the event will be transitioning from the George E. Smith Memorial Fire Truck Pull to the Paul F. Fournier Memorial Fire Truck Pull in 2025, honouring the legacy of Paul F. Fournier, a longtime supporter, leader and advocate of the YMCA and local community.