Reno Firefighters Continue a Heartwarming Holiday Tradition
The holiday spirit is alive in Reno as both current and retired firefighters from the Reno Fire Department (RFD) gear up for their annual tradition of assembling and distributing holiday food baskets to families in need. This heartfelt initiative is set to take place on Saturday, December 20, at 8 a.m. at Station 21, located at 2501 Mill St.
This year’s effort is dedicated to Jana Maas, a recently retired RFD firefighter who unexpectedly passed away. Maas was a devoted advocate for the program, dedicating her time to ensure that each basket delivered joy and dignity to its recipients.
“We are proud to honor Jana’s legacy this year, as she took great care to ensure our department honored Sam Saibini,” expressed Reno Fire Chief David Cochran. “This one is for Jana, and as firefighters, we’re always in the business of giving back. Being able to help families who may need extra support during this time of year is important to us.”
The selection of families for the program is made through referrals from various community-based organizations and agencies. This year, the firefighters aim to deliver 150 baskets to those in need.
The tradition dates back to 1932 when Sam Saibini, a Reno Fire Department firefighter, initiated the program during the Great Depression. Saibini enlisted the help of captains at each Reno fire station to provide Christmas dinners to families struggling during the holidays. Each firefighter contributed $1 to fund the purchase of food.
Over the years, the program has expanded substantially, bolstered by the primary funding from RFD members, along with the generosity of local businesses and individuals who support the initiative.
Additional background:
Saibini, who retired in 1968 as a battalion chief, started this initiative during the Great Depression—a time when people dismantled fences to obtain wood for heating. During this challenging period, Reno firefighters also procured wood and coal for local families, storing these supplies along with food at the old Central Fire Station at Commercial Row and West Street.
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