Safford announces record breaking Give From the Heart proceeds . . . again

Jon Johnson File Photo/Gila Herald: Former Safford City Council Member Michael Andazola Sr. interviews Assistant City Manager Eric Bejarano while dressed as a hot dog at last year’s record-breaking event. The Give From the Hearr program announced anouther record-breaking haul this year.

By Jon Johnson

jonjohnsonnews@gmail.com

SAFFORD – The 8th annual Give From the Heart hotdog and nacho sale at Safford City Hall obliterated its previous record for fundraising by nearly double this year, with $4,662.59 raised for the program. 

All funds benefit the Give from the Heart program, which helps city residents 62 and older who meet an income threshold pay their monthly utility bills. The program is 100% funded by donations.   

The increase this year follows a recent trend. Last year’s record of $2,802.66 doubled the haul in 2023, which was roughly $1,300. Of course, that was before the hot dog costume. The annual event includes the sale of $2 hot dogs, $3 nachos, and $1 sodas on the City Hall lawn.  

In its release, the city gave a special thanks to all who participated in the event, those who helped spread the word, and the event’s sponsors, including Vista Recycling, Kempton Chevrolet, Nutrioso Riders, Fairway Independent Mortgage, Food City, CMI, Pepsi, Walmart, Modern Woodman, and Boulevard Glass. 

“Because of you, we’ve set another record and kept the spirit of giving alive, one hot dog at a time,” the release stated.