Sisters businesses offer help to firefighters and evacuees

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The community of Sisters is rallying to support firefighters and residents affected by nearby fires. Local businesses Lucky's Woodsman and Sisters Athletic Club are offering free services to those protecting the area and anyone displaced from their homes.

These community efforts come as fires in the region are getting closer to the town of Sisters. Lucky's Woodsman has activated its “Hold the Line” fund, a charity established last year to feed firefighters. This year, it has expanded its services this year to include fire evacuees.

Lucky's Woodsman is providing free food and drinks to any firefighter or individual displaced by evacuations. Jackson Higdon, Owner of Lucky's Woodsman, is very passionate about the supporting wildfire fighters. “I think it's the utmost importance that we do whatever we can to support the people that keep our forest green, keep our trails open, our campsites going and ultimately keep our community strong during a distressed time,” Higdon said.

To further support the “Hold the Line” initiative, a pig roast fundraiser is scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, at 3 p.m. at Lazy Z Ranch. All residents of Sisters are invited to the event. First responders and those affected by the fires will be served meals first. Every meal purchased will contribute to the fund and attendees will also have the opportunity to make donations and meet the firefighters.

The Sisters Athletic Club has also opened its doors to both firefighters and evacuees. The club serves as a safe, cool place for individuals to escape the smoke and charge their cellphones.

Firefighters have been making use of the club's showers. Some of them even hit weight room to decompress.

Tate Metcalf, owner of Sisters Athletic Club, expressed the club's generous support for those in need. “They just have come to come in, we're not going to ask questions,” Metcalf said. “We're not going to. You know, question where they live. You know, this is time. People are distraught. They need some help. They just need some kindness. So come in, tell us that you got evacuated. We'll take care of you the best that we can.” Additionally, members of the athletic club have inquired about how they can help and the club may be able to connect individuals with further resources if asked.