On Labor Day, while many people were off, Olive Garden was cooking and serving food to a fire station in Sparks and a fire station in Reno. Firefighters say the Labor Day meal donation really impacts how they operate. We have the rib cook off right in our back yard. It certainly is a boost to our community and it keeps us running,” said Sparks Fire Department Captain Ed McDonald.
On Monday, it was two fire station's turns to dig in and take a breath. The Olive Garden donated meals to the stations. "It was super rewarding because everyone was surprised to see that we were showing up. No one knew we were coming,” said Olive Garden To-Go-Specialist Sierra Starbuck.
For the last 18 years, Olive Garden has been donating meals to first responders on Labor Day. While most people are taking the day off for the holiday, first responders are working. “Most of us are away from our families today providing for the community. To get a little bit back in return is a really nice gesture and appreciated,” said Captain McDonald. “They work really hard keeping the community really safe and fighting wildfires as well. So I know some of them work some long hours so it’s nice to give back to them,” said Olive Garden Manager April Vlach.
The free pasta, salad, and bread sticks make a difference in how the firefighters operate. It not only refuels firefighters physically, it also refuels them mentally. “It gives us that opportunity to sit around the table with the camaraderie. We take a little time and enjoy a good meal. With the middle of fire season and the special events going on in the community, it keeps us running. To have that provided, it boosts moral and it's just great,” said Captain McDonald.
The Olive Garden employees who are cooking and serving the meal also get something out of the deal. “They are out here helping us and we just wanted to help them,” said Starbuck.
Olive Garden says its restaurants deliver the Labor Day meal to first responders all over the country.The company picks different stations and departments each year.
On Labor Day, while many people were off, Olive Garden was cooking and serving food to a fire station in Sparks and a fire station in Reno. Firefighters say the Labor Day meal donation really impacts how they operate. "We have the rib cook off right in our back yard. It certainly is a boost to our community and it keeps us running,”
