A five-year-old Manatee County resident hosted a "Donut Day" for first responders in Bradenton on Nov. 22 to show appreciation for the work of county police and firefighters.
- Idea came from Hannah Rodgers, 5
- Manatee County EMS, deputies, firefighters attended
- First responders gave Hannah a plaque, junior deputy badge
To look down 145th Street Circle NE in Bradenton Wednesday and see all the emergency vehicles, you might think something bad happened, but it was actually quite the opposite.
Five-year-old Hannah Rodgers was hosting what she called "Donut Day for Manatee County First Responders."
The idea started taking shape a few weeks ago at dinner, when Hannah saw a couple of police officers.
"She wanted to pay for their dinner, but unfortunately they got up too quick and they left," said Hannah's father, Daniel. "So for the last two weeks she’s been really focused on trying to find a way to thank the first responders.”
“Originally she wanted to have a hot dog party and then it evolved to coffee and donuts," Daniel explained.
Hannah used all her Christmas and birthday money over the year -- $232 -- on the coffee and doughnuts for "Donut Day."
Manatee County EMS paramedics, Sheriff’s Office deputies and East Manatee firefighters stopped by for the event. Hannah got shy when everyone arrived, but her gesture said it all.
"We love it," said Deputy Carrie Renninger with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. "It’s a joyful event for us to know that somebody this young actually understands the job that we do, and the fact that she was able to save her money and present us with donuts and coffee, we’re ecstatic."
Attendees showed their appreciation for Hannah, as well -- she got a plaque, a junior deputy badge, and look inside their emergency vehicles.
"It’s very heartwarming that she decided to this and reach out to the community and to the emergency responders throughout the community to show her 'thank you' for what we do," said District Chief Mark Laraway with Manatee County EMS.
The attendees all left the event with a picture Hannah colored and feeling grateful for what this little girl did. Her parents were pretty proud, too.
"She’s got a big heart, she’s always had a big heart," said Daniel. "She’s very giving. I’m very proud of her."