San Jose father Eric Harvey's annual tradition of delivering pies to local first responders on Thanksgiving dates back to a life-changing 911 call in 2021, when his wife went into labor at home and the station's team helped deliver their youngest son, Tony.
That harrowing moment sparked Harvey's desire to show gratitude to those who keep people safe every day. Over time, he has been delivering an increasing number of pies to fire stations across South San Jose, rising from two pies in 2021 to 28 this year, with plans for his sons' future appreciation.
Harvey, a veteran of the US Navy, understands that first responders often spend Thanksgiving away from home, awaiting a distress call. He says it's an act of giving back and making their day slightly sweeter.
Through crowdfunding campaigns, Harvey has obtained essential supplies to fuel his pie-making endeavors, including 35 pounds of pumpkin and $120 worth of pie shells. This year, he aims to support 14 fire stations with his pies.
Harvey hopes that the smiles on first responders' faces as they taste his creations will be a lasting reward for their tireless work. By doing so, Harvey wishes to instill an appreciation for those who risk their lives to keep others safe โ not just in the eyes of his children but also for the men and women who put it all out there every day.
Each year, as Thanksgiving dawns, Harvey sets off on a 3-4 hour journey to deliver pies, driven by the thought that every bite has the power to bring joy to those who deserve it most. His legacy is one of hope and gratitude โ reminding people of the importance of paying tribute to first responders in any way possible.
That harrowing moment sparked Harvey's desire to show gratitude to those who keep people safe every day. Over time, he has been delivering an increasing number of pies to fire stations across South San Jose, rising from two pies in 2021 to 28 this year, with plans for his sons' future appreciation.
Harvey, a veteran of the US Navy, understands that first responders often spend Thanksgiving away from home, awaiting a distress call. He says it's an act of giving back and making their day slightly sweeter.
Through crowdfunding campaigns, Harvey has obtained essential supplies to fuel his pie-making endeavors, including 35 pounds of pumpkin and $120 worth of pie shells. This year, he aims to support 14 fire stations with his pies.
Harvey hopes that the smiles on first responders' faces as they taste his creations will be a lasting reward for their tireless work. By doing so, Harvey wishes to instill an appreciation for those who risk their lives to keep others safe โ not just in the eyes of his children but also for the men and women who put it all out there every day.
Each year, as Thanksgiving dawns, Harvey sets off on a 3-4 hour journey to deliver pies, driven by the thought that every bite has the power to bring joy to those who deserve it most. His legacy is one of hope and gratitude โ reminding people of the importance of paying tribute to first responders in any way possible.