Gionino’s of Aurora Turns Raffle Win Into Water Rescue Gear for Local Firefighters

A raffle ticket bought to support local firefighters ended up doing a little more than that. Gionino’s of Aurora bought raffle tickets during a recent fundraiser held by the Aurora Firefighters Association. The goal was simple. The owners wanted to support the department, and winning was never really the point. Then their ticket was drawn, and the business won $500. Prize Money Heads Back to the Department Rather than keep the winnings, the owners decided to give the money back to the firefighters. They asked the department whether there was something specific the $500 could pay for. As it turned out, there was. Aurora firefighters are upfitting a new rescue boat, and it still needed safety ropes and life vests to be fully equipped. That seemed like a good fit. The full $500 went back to the department to buy those items. Gear for the Water Most residents hope they never need a water rescue. Ropes and life vests are basic tools, but a rescue boat isn’t ready without them. They protect the crews on the water as well as the people they’re trying to reach. A Fundraiser That Came Full Circle The raffle was meant to raise money for the Aurora Firefighters Association. Everyone who bought a ticket helped with that. In this case, the prize money stayed with the department too, and it’s now part of the equipment on Aurora’s newest rescue boat. FAQs What did Gionino’s of Aurora win in the firefighters’ raffle? Gionino’s of Aurora won $500 in a raffle fundraiser held by the Aurora Firefighters Association. What happened to the $500 raffle prize? The owners gave the full $500 back to the Aurora Fire Department to buy equipment it needed. What equipment will the donation buy? The money will pay for safety ropes and life vests for a new rescue boat the department is upfitting. Does the Aurora Fire Department have a new rescue boat? Yes. Aurora firefighters are upfitting a new rescue boat, and the donated ropes and life vests will help equip it. How can residents support the Aurora Firefighters Association? Residents can buy tickets or donate during the association’s fundraisers, like the raffle that led to this donation.