Restaurant thanks local firefighters with special lunch

Olive Garden in El Centro thanked local firefighters for their service Monday.

Some of the restaurant’s team members delivered a warm lunch to The El Centro and the Imperial County Fire Department, in honor of Labor Day.

It’s a tradition the restaurant has been doing for six years.

“It’s to thank them for always serving our community and always being there when we need them,” said Karina Reyes, Olive Garden manager.

“It’s really nice to be able to do this as a community, and just reaching out and giving our thanks to them,” said Martha Sandoval, Olive Garden service specialist.

It’s a gesture of gratitude firefighters in Imperial were not expecting.

“It’s great to see the community do something like this for us,” said Marvin Centeno, Imperial County Fire Department Engineer.

“I love serving my community, ever since I was little it was installed in me to serve the people. I think it’s great to be able to communicate and be around the community,” said Centeno.

Olive garden said they plan to continue the tradition next year.