Tacoma Fire Department employees hosted several friendly contests recently to see which team could bring in the most donations for the local YWCA women’s shelter, with firefighters on “C” shift narrowly edging out the “D” shift crews as top contributors. The annual tradition dates back to 2003. A human supply chain of firefighters and YWCA staff helped unload and stock over 5,000 pounds of non-perishable staples that will help feed the program participants throughout the holidays and for many months to come. “Having a variety of food on hand that we can prepare for our clients is truly a blessing and we are very grateful for TFD’s support of the shelter”, said Karin White-Tautfest, Director of Shelter and Advocacy Services. Established in 1906, the YWCA Pierce County has devoted over a century to creating opportunity and safety for women and children in the community.  A forerunner in the domestic violence service provision field, the YWCA established Washington State’s first domestic violence shelter in 1976.