Sault Ste. Marie residents are invited to form teams and test their strength against a full-sized fire truck on September 17, 2026. The Big Pull: Fire Truck Edition will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Station Mall parking lot. [Time pending confirmation — see editor’s note] The event is a partnership between Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services and United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District.
Teams of 10 to 12 people will race to pull a fire truck across the finish line in a timed competition. Each team must raise at least $1,000 to take part. All money raised stays in the community, supporting United Way programs that help children, youth, families, and seniors across the Algoma region.
“In the fire service, everyone works together to accomplish the task at hand,” said Aaron Gravelle, Public Education Officer with Sault Fire Services. “Every call our fire crews respond to depends on teamwork, trust and people working together toward a common goal.”
The Big Pull marks the official start of United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District’s 2026 fundraising campaign. The organization, which has served the area since 1957, directs its efforts toward three key areas: helping people enter the workforce, access essential services, and achieve food security. Sault Fire Services is donating the fire truck and operational support for the day.
Those wanting to enter a team, volunteer, or sponsor the event can contact United Way Executive Director Lori Huston at 705-256-7476 ext. 201. The United Way Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District says the challenge is a chance for workplaces and community groups to build team spirit while making a real difference locally.
