(Metro Creative Graphics)

The North Tenneha Church of Christ will host its second First Responders Day from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday at the church, 1701 N. Tenneha Ave.

The event will open with a program in which administrators from local emergency medical services, the Tyler police and fire departments, as well as the Smith County sheriff’s and Precinct 1 constable’s offices are expected to give presentations. 

“The purpose of the event is basically to bridge the gap between the first responders and the community,” said Artis Newsom, an elder at the church and coordinator of the First Responders Day. “Each agency has been asked to give us an update and discuss their hiring practices for minorities.”

First responders who serve the neighborhood around the church will also receive certificates of appreciation. 

Those at the event will also get a chance to view a helicopter and several different emergency vehicles. A free light lunch will follow the program. 

Newsome said he hopes that those who attend will leave with a better relationship with local first responders and that it will be beneficial should they ever need them.