MAYOR DEMINGS' DIGEST
As we head into November, I am reminded of the spirit of Thanksgiving, a time we gather in gratitude with our family and loved ones, and also share our blessings with others.
On November 12, we will kick off the annual
Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive
. Since the Toy Drive’s inception, more than 35,000 toys have been distributed to local kids in need. Last year, Orange County employees and local residents generously donated more than 4,200 toys, and I am confident we will see that level of generosity again this year.
Please donate new, unwrapped toys for infants, children and teens at one of the multiple drop-off locations throughout the County. Visit
www.ocfl.net/ToyDrive
for more information. Special thanks to
WOFL Fox 35
for its media partnership.
We also recently launched our annual
Adopt a Fire Station
program, which allows neighborhood groups, businesses and non-profits to give back to County Fire Stations during the holidays. Many of our first responders spend the holiday season on-call and are unable to be with their loved ones.
Residents can show their appreciation by providing holiday meals and treats and by volunteering their time with local firefighters. Visit
www.ocfl.net/AdoptaFireStation
for details.
Many thanks to all of our veterans as we honor and celebrate Veterans Day on Nov. 11. We are proud there are nearly 70,000 veterans who live in Orange County and about 10 percent of our Orange County employees are either active military or veterans. Finally, I am thankful to be your Mayor, and I know you will join me in giving thanks for the generosity of our wonderful community.