Yukon siblings' lemonade stand raises more than $900 for fire department

The Yukon Volunteer Fire Department received $903 in donations over the weekend from six siblings who successfully held their third lemonade stand.

Laken Cope’s children first sold lemonade at the end of May and used the inaugural profits to purchase additional lemonade and cups for a second sale in June.

Inspired to make a difference, Cope said her children decided to give the second sale’s $200 profit to the Yukon Volunteer Fire Department. The children also donated pet food they collected to a local animal shelter.

After seeing their success and positive feedback, Cope’s children set their goal for their third lemonade stand at $500.

“It went amazing,” Cope said of the two-day event. “So many supporters came out … it was unbelievable actually.”

The stand was open Saturday and Sunday, Cope said, attracting a wide range of visitors including members of the local fire department.

Kim Lofgren, fire department president, said the $903 raised combined with the previous $200 was “phenomenal” and “greatly appreciated.”

“I can’t even describe it, we were just so overwhelmed,” Lofgren said. “I’m still in awe of how much they raised.”

Lofgren said the money will be put toward the department’s new truck, specifically the tools and “necessities” it will require.

When the children dropped off the money at the fire hall, they were given a tour of the station, free T-shirts and a photo-op in front of the new truck.

The children will receive a present soon from the department’s junior firemen, Lofgren said.

In addition to the money, Cope said the third stand garnered other support, including pet food, lemons and a monetary donation. The children also received a Dairy Queen gift card to treat themselves.

“They met new people, (and) they learned a lot of stuff,” Cope said. “It was overwhelming the support everyone gave the kids to raise over the amount they wanted.”