In the Midst of Tax-Free Shopping, Grab a Meal and Tip A Firefighter/EMT

This Thursday, is hoping families take a break from the tax-free and back-to-school shopping to get a bite to eat and help the Town of Canton Volunteer Fire and EMS Department.

From 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, the restaurant will host Tip a Volunteer Firefighter/EMT. For each customer with a coupon, available at www.cantonfireandems.org, the restaurant will donate 10 percent of their bill to the department. It will also donated 10 percent of the day’s total take.

"The 25th is during Connecticut Tax Free Holiday so it's the perfect time to save money and see what's happening at The Shoppes," fire Capt. Steve Lapointe said. "Plus, the food and atmosphere at Dish 'n Dat are awesome. We look forward to serving the  community — but in a different way."

At lunch and dinner time, firefighters and EMTs, under the supervision of the wait staff, will be indeed be on hand to help host, serve dinner, seat customers, bring out food, clear tables and tend bar.

"Dish 'n Dat is a strong supporter of the fire service," LaPointe said. "This is the second year that they have sponsored this event for us so we are very grateful to have a community partner like them. Their staff was very professional and very patient with us last year when we were their assistants."

Last November's event raised some $800 for the department.

The restaurant holds many fundraisers but tries to do a little more for the Fire and EMS department, owner Dan Keller said.

“They do great work,” Keller said. “As a business owner it’s part of my civic duty to support them.”

Again this year, the department will also bring a ladder truck and another truck to the restaurant, which is located in the on Route 44.

"This fundraiser is a great opportunity for us to meet new people and talk to them about the work we do," LaPointe said. "Some people still don't realize that we're volunteers, for example. Also during the day-long event, we can answer any questions people may have about the fire service, especially if someone is interested in how they can join or participate. There is a notion about the type of person who can be a volunteer firefighter or EMT. And the truth is that we value many different types of contributions."

Keller said the fundraiser is also a great time for the kids and the whole family.

“Not only can they have a great meal and have a great time, they’re supporting a great cause,” Keller said.

To ensure that 10 percent of your meal goes to the department, download a coupon at www.cantonfireandems.org.

In addition, reservations are recommended. Call (860) 693-4927.