LUBBOCK, Texas — Lubbock resident Daniel Hernandez, owner of hat store Hometown Hats Co., told EverythingLubbock.com that when he held his first fundraiser for the Panhandle fires, the response was overwhelming.
Hernandez said he was able to present a check for $105,000 to firefighters and emergency responders in the Panhandle and hopes to donate that same amount, or even more, to the ongoing fires in Ruidoso.
“The idea is the same. We want to raise money for our local fire department and respond to fires, so the majority of the proceeds will always go to the fire department,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez, of Hometown Huts, said when she saw the news about the wildfires in Ruidoso, where she often visits, it was unbearable to watch.
“This is a place I used to go to often, I’m from West Texas, and now it’s burned down. Some of the cafes where I ate on Saturday have been demolished. Alto Cafe is no longer there. It’s just crazy to think how quickly a wildfire can change someone’s life,” Hernandez said.
That’s why he and his team quickly came up with the Ruidoso Strong – South Fork and Salt Fire Snapback. The snapback is currently on presale, with proceeds going to firefighters fighting the blazes. Hernandez said the money will go directly to what firefighters need.
“The funds will go towards replenishing their equipment — buying masks, fuel, but also some of their terrain vehicles,” Hernandez said.
