The East Pierce Fire and Rescue pancake breakfast brought in $9,000 that will be used for charitable causes.

More than 600 people enjoyed breakfast with Santa and local firefighters Dec. 6 at the fire station in Sumner

The money was raised through donations, ticket sales and a silent auction during the annual event.

Most of the money will help purchase Christmas gifts for more than 500 children who live within the Sumner School District, including Bonney Lake, South Prairie and the city of Sumner.

The firefighters also collected donations of nonperishable food items to distribute to the local food banks.

According to East Pierce firefighter-paramedic Rex Orcutt and his wife Cindy, who organized this year’s event, a portion of the money will be used throughout the year as an emergency fund.

Information provided by East Pierce Fire and Rescue.