COLUSA, CA (MPG) – Firefighters across Colusa County are stepping up to support one of their own as local paramedic Melissa Lopez continues her fight against breast cancer.
The Williams Fire Department will host a community raffle to raise funds for Lopez, who has served the county for 15 years. The drawing will take place March 14 during the Williams Firefighters Sportsman’s Night. Ticket holders do not need to be present to win.
Prizes include a RIA 1911 A1 .45 stainless handgun, a Benelli SuperNova 12/28 shotgun and a Winchester gun safe. Organizers list the total prize value at $3,000. Tickets cost $20 each.
Tickets are available from any Williams firefighter, at the Williams Fire Department, the Arbuckle Fire Department and the Maxwell Fire Department. Community members can also call (530) 473-2269 or email mpineda240@williamsfire.net for information.
The raffle follows a recent boot drive hosted by the Colusa Fire Department and supported by Williams Fire and other agencies. Firefighters collected donations on Jan. 31 at Fifth and Market streets, and Fremont and Seventh streets in Colusa.
Colusa Fire Chief Logan Conley said the boot drive raised more than $6,000 to assist Lopez with expenses related to her treatment.
After the event, the department thanked the community for its support.
“We are beyond grateful for this incredible community that came together for our boot drive, in support of our own paramedic, Mellissa, who is courageously fighting breast cancer,” the department said in a statement. “Because of your generosity, kindness and willingness to show up, we were able to raise an amazing donation that will help support her through this journey.”
Lopez’s colleagues described her as a dedicated first responder who has served residents across the county for more than a decade.
“This is what community looks like: compassion, strength and standing together when it matters most,” the department said. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Mellissa and reminding us how powerful unity can be.”