The unmistakable sounds of sirens, honking horns, and laughter filled the air at the BDO Centre in Portage la Prairie on Thursday evening, as the annual Touch-A-Truck event brought families together for an unforgettable hands-on experience.
The event was organized by the Portage Community Revitalization Corporation (PCRC) in partnership with the Family Resource Centre (FRC), the City of Portage la Prairie, and Co-op Homestead Portage, which donated free hot dogs and freezies. Touch-A-Truck offers children a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with fire trucks, RCMP cruisers, buses, tractors, and more.
"It’s just after five, and we've already had over 250 people come through," said Mari Kozar, Executive directors of the PCRC. "We've had a great turnout. We're always thankful to everyone who volunteers a truck and comes out to help."
The vehicles came from an array of community services. Represented were the RCMP, the Portage la Prairie fire department, Go Green, Community Safety Officers, and even a school bus from the Portage School Division.
"We never know year to year who'll be available, so it's always appreciated when they come," added Kozar. "The kids love it!"
Shelley Swidnicki from the Family Resource Centre said the event is about more than just the trucks, it's about reconnecting with the community.
"It brings families out, and that's what we're all about."
The FRC also brought fun of their own, handing out free temporary tattoos to excited kids.
The Portage la Prairie Fire Department showcased one of its biggest and most eye-catching trucks.
"This one's got a really cool bell on the front," said a firefighter at the event. "It's one of my favorite trucks and it's great seeing how much the kids enjoy it."
Community connection was a recurring theme. An RCMP officer at the event emphasized the importance of visibility.
"It's good for the community to see us out here, so they're familiar with our faces," he said. "It helps build trust."
Kristen Tompsett, a local parent, came with her two children, Sean and Emily.
"We came last year and had a blast, so we knew we had to come again," she said. "It seems like even more people came out this time, it just gets better every year."
Her son Sean couldn't get enough of the school bus.
"Funny thing is, he'll be riding one all the time soon!"
As the event dwindled down one thing was clear, Touch-A-Truck remains a highlight many community members can't wait for every year!
