CULLMAN, Ala. – The Berlin Volunteer Fire Department will host its fourth annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 7-10 a.m. at the Berlin Community Center. The event promises a morning filled with Christmas cheer, community fellowship and delicious pancakes—all with a special visit from Santa.
The breakfast is donation based, with all proceeds benefiting local families in need during the Christmas season. Shelby Teichmiller, a representative for the Berlin VFD, shared the inspirational origins of the event: “This event is something that we pour a lot into, but it’s turned into something that pours more into us than we ever thought possible,” said Teichmiller. “We initially started the breakfast after Mrs. Janice (Laney), our previous chief’s wife and current chief’s mother, wanted to find a way to support families in our community after the county volunteer fire department association stopped doing their annual golf fundraiser that supported families for the Christmas season. Since then, we have turned it into an annual event.”
In its four years, the event has grown significantly, with much of its success attributed to the generosity of local supporters and businesses. “First and foremost, I have to stop and say thank you to our community and corporate sponsors; it absolutely would not be possible without the outpouring of assistance they give us,” Teichmiller shared. “Their help allows us to host this event and assist roughly 30 children each year. In doing that we provide Christmas gifts, clothing and shoes to each child. Beyond that, we have been blessed enough to also give each family a gift card for groceries each year.”
Beyond the delicious pancakes and a chance to meet Santa, the event offers additional activities to engage the community. This year’s highlights include two raffles, featuring a rifle and a “Ladies Day Out” basket filled with gift certificates to popular local spots, as well as a newly added silent auction with exciting items like a deer feeder and an electric smoker. For those unable to stay, convenient drive-thru and to-go options will be available, ensuring everyone has access to a warm breakfast. Additionally, families can enjoy photos with Santa, who will be available for photos in front of a festive Christmas backdrop.
“We want everyone in our community to come eat and fellowship with us. While we take donations at the door, that absolutely is not a requirement, nor has it ever been. We want everyone in our community and surrounding communities to be able to come, have a chance to visit with Santa and enjoy a hot breakfast,” stated Teichmiller.
For more information about the event, including details on raffles and the silent auction, visit the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department’s official Facebook page or email berlinefiredepartment@outlook.com. The Berlin Community Center is located at 3309 U.S. Highway 278.
Copyright 2024 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
