On Friday, May 30th, 2025, all local first responders were invited to a special a ‘Drop-In Breakfast’ hosted at The Cottages at Bethany in Statesboro. While formal invitations were not sent, email invites were extended to the Statesboro Fire Department, Statesboro Police Department, Bulloch County EMS, Georgia Southern University Police, the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office, and other first responder organizations in the area.
The event was coordinated and served by Cottage residents, Bethany staff, and dedicated Bethany volunteers. They came together with one goal: to show heartfelt appreciation to the brave individuals who serve and protect our community.
"It was a great privilege to serve those who put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” said Regina Bell, Executive Director at Bethany. “This is the third time we’ve hosted this event, and we plan to continue making it an annual tradition. Our residents and staff want to show our ongoing gratitude for everything our first responders do and for the countless lives they touch.”
Firefighters, EMS, paramedics, law enforcement officers, and other emergency personnel were welcomed throughout the morning. Though it was a drop-in event, responders were invited to sit and visit.
“It is a pleasure and rewarding effort, to meet and greet those young and old first responders, who leave the comforts of their home and families to care for others and protect those In harm's way,” said Bette Wester, Cottage resident.
Guests enjoyed chicken biscuits, coffee, juice, and sweet treats. The Cottages at Bethany proudly partnered with generous local businesses to make the event possible.
Chick-fil-A, Uncle Shug’s, Cool Beanz, and Three Tree Coffee Roasters donated the biscuits and coffee and Bethany provided the juice and sweets.
Bell concluded, “Working in the service industry, providing care for others is one of the most rewarding jobs of all, but so many don't think of law enforcement, firefighters, EMS as being a part of this. They touch so many lives in often the worst situations so their kindness and compassion are so important. Bethany along with other supporters wanted to give a little ‘Shout Out’ of our gratitude."
