Fall River’s Touch-a-Truck Honors Local Heroes and a Brave Boy Fighting Leukemia

When flashing lights and roaring engines meet compassion, the result is something truly special.

Alert Ambulance Service is hosting its first annual Touch-a-Truck & Charity Car Show this Sunday, October 19, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 289 Pleasant Street in Fall River, across from Prima CARE PC. Get ready for an afternoon of fun, food, and fundraising – all for a local hero named Cullen Cook, a Swansea boy courageously battling leukemia.

Before the event officially begins, Cullen will get his own private tour of the trucks, emergency vehicles, and vendors. All proceeds from the day will go directly toward helping Cullen’s family with medical expenses and other financial needs.

Built From Love and Loss

Event organizer Rob Araujo of Alert EMS said the inspiration came from a deeply personal place.

“My cousin Chris Botelho passed away from stage four liver cancer,” Araujo shared. “He was like a big brother to me. I wanted to do something meaningful in his memory and something that would also help a local family directly.”

READ MORE: Spider-Man Helped a Swansea 3-Year-Old Boy Battling Leukemia Find His Smile Again

From that spark, the Touch-a-Truck idea was born. Araujo and his administrative team at Alert partnered with PrimaCare, which donated use of the parking lots, and began reaching out to sponsors, fire departments and small businesses.

“This is our first time doing something like this,” he said. “It just kept growing, and now it’s turned into a really cool event that brings everyone together.”

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What to Expect

There will be a lineup of fire engines, ambulances, dump trucks, and even a forestry truck where kids can test out a real water hose.

Other highlights include a Lightning McQueen replica car courtesy of local car enthusiast Joseph Tabbi, and a race-car Mickey Mouse appearance.

For younger guests, there will be free pumpkin painting (thanks to donations from Shaw’s and Home Depot) and face painting by Ariel. Spider-Man will also swing by for photos. Both donated by Megan Rego Photography and A Piece of Cake Parties.

On the food side, the event will feature The Perky Turkey food truck (famous for its Thanksgiving sandwiches and “turkey toes”) and Mini Donut Bites, serving warm, sugary treats.

Finally, Wolf & Bear, a dog-treat company beloved by local pet owners, will also be on scene donating a portion of their proceeds – and yes, pets are welcome too, as long as they’re leashed.

Supporting Local Heroes

In addition to Alert Ambulance Service, participating departments include Somerset Fire, Fall River Fire and EMS, Westport Fire, and other community organizations and local businesses.

Guests can vote for “Best in Show” and enjoy live music, raffles, and activities for all ages. It’s a day built on teamwork, tribute, and togetherness.