Monterey boy gives up birthday gifts to help Soberanes firefighters

A Monterey boy who selflessly gave up birthday gifts to help firefighters battling the Soberanes Fire, got a big surprise on Monday when Cal Fire crews showed up at his home.

Christopher Ushakoff’s mother said her son had his 8th birthday party at the Monterey Moose Lodge on Sunday. She said it was his idea to ask guests to bring donations for firefighters instead of gifts because they are his heroes.

Ushakoff’s friends brought snacks, bottled water and first aid items, which were later picked up by Cal Fire.

Battalion Chief Richard Lopez said he was so touched by Ushakoff’s generosity, he and several other firefighters decided to thank him in person Monday morning.