Thousands showed support for Sand Fire first responders and victims during Saturday’s Fire And Sheriff Thank You Event & Benefit For Sand Fire Victims at Central Park in Santa Clarita.

All of the money donated during the event will go through the Santa Clarita Valley Disaster Coalition to help those who lost everything in the Sand Fire.

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Santa Clarita City Council members and other community representatives expressed their gratitude for the first responders, including firefighters and law enforcement officials, who helped save lives and what could be saved as the flames claimed 18 structures, including the homes of four firefighters.

“We say thank you to all of the incredible first responders that came out and helped us get through a very difficult situation,” said Santa Clarita Mayor Bob Kellar.

Kellar went on to ask for a big round of applause for Los Angeles County Fire Department, Angeles National Forest officials, California Highway Patrol and the LA County Sheriff’s Department.

“You folks absolutely rock and we can’t give you enough ‘Thank you’s,’” he added.

Attendees were allowed to meet the heroes of the Sand Fire who helped save lives and properties and sign a “Thank you” poster recognizing their efforts.

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“This was one the most difficult times in this valley,” said Steve Knight, R- Palmdale. “Just over a month ago, we had a lot of brave men and women that fought a fire that was at most of the time out of control and doing different things than we’ve seen other fires do. And talking to the firefighters’ department, they were saying that this was a very confusing fire, but they were very diligent and made sure we were protected in this valley.”

The 41,000-acre Sand Fire began July 22, and is still considered at 98 percent containment. Federal fire officials reported the steep locations of certain spots have 100 percent containment impossible.

“Just from the bottom of my heart, we want to thank you first responders,” said Assemblyman Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita. “We’ve lived here, (my wife) Vanessa and I, since 1990, and this is by far the scariest fire we’ve ever seen. It was so realistic at times, and we’re just so thankful we didn’t have more loss of life or property.”

The SCV Disaster Coalition helps provide relief to community members faced with rebuilding their lives after natural disasters.

KHTS AM-1220 is part of an alliance of community volunteer members, including past and current city, fire and law enforcement personnel who help raise funds for the coalition.

Adria Morales contributed to this article.