The day before Christmas, Rural Metro received a call from a grandmother who has just recently moved to San Tan Valley from out of state. She explained that her moving costs were much higher than expected. While she has secured a job, it doesn't start till later in January. Her main concern however was that she was now responsible for her two grandchildren, while her daughter was recovering in rehab.
In tears she said she had nothing for her grandsons ages 12 and 15. Shawn Gilleland, PIO Rural Metro Fire Dept, who took the call explained that they had some toys, but nothing for kids that age and Rural Metro had distributed all the gift cards donated by local businesses. Tearfully, she said she understood. "I couldn't tell her no," said Gilleland. "So I made a call."