Shaver Lake supporting the firefighters battling the growing Garnet Fire

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- "They're putting themselves at risk and we all appreciate it. We're just trying to give back," Shaver Lake cabin owner Jerry Saunders said.

A token of gratitude...

"We are going to be providing hamburgers and cheeseburgers for all the firefighters who are fighting he Garnet fire up in Shaver Lake," Bobby Lynn with The Hungry Hut.

Staff are working late nights at The Hungry Hut in Shaver Lake as firefighters come off the line looking for a hot meal.

"Yesterday was pretty busy. I don't think we closed until 10:30 p.m.," Lynn said.

As a thank you to the crews, the small town restaurant, along with donations from the community, will be cooking up close to 200 burgers. All free of charge.

"It's just nice to be doing this little bit because the fires don't seem to be stopping. We'll just keep doing what we're doing," Lynn said.

It's a small gesture with a big impact, especially for the more than 2,000 personnel working on the frontlines in the Sierra National Forest.

"Many people have connections in Shaver, Dinky Creek, Wishon, Courtright," said Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig. "A lot of people are very thankful by all the efforts of the firefighters."

In between shifts, many crews are outside and sleep in tents.

Saunders is among those opening their doors, offering a warm bed and is organizing other cabin owners to do the same.

"We're getting contacted every day by guys and ladies to fighting the fire," he said. "At this point. It's kind of been word-of-mouth."

As the Garnet fire approaches the town, it's a stark reminder of the devastation left by the Creek Fire.

Residents say they continue to monitor the fire's spread on an hourly basis.

"There is a sensitivity around this locally. The community just wants to help. They want to help the firefighters that have helped us five years ago," Saunders said.

Saunders is asking anyone with cabins in the China Peak area to consider offering space, as more crews are being stationed there.

Meanwhile, The Hungry Hut will be serving burgers to firefighters this Thursday, while supplies last. They're still accepting donations to help keep the grill going.

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