After a long absence the Turkey Bowl is returning to benefit a Roanoke Rapids firefighter who continues to receive treatments for mantle cell lymphoma.

On December 1, at 1 p.m. at the Roanoke Rapids High School football field teams will take the gridiron for a flag football game to benefit Battalion Chief Kevin Hawkins.

Dubbed the Team Hawkins Turkey Bowl, admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children. There will be concessions, raffle prizes and a 50-50 drawing. Prize packages will be announced next week.

Police Chief Chuck Hasty and fire Chief Stacy Coggins are assembling the teams, which will include first responders and others interested in playing. More information about signing up to play, donating raffle prizes or volunteering for the event can be obtained by calling Hasty at the police department — 252-533-2810 — or Coggins at the fire department — 252-533-2880.

“It would be great to see a good outpouring from the community in support of Chief Hawkins in his fight,” Coggins said. “Chief Hawkins was instrumental in beginning the first Turkey Bowl we had. It’s great to see the Turkey Bowl revived to support him. I look forward to the fun and camaraderie as the community comes together.”

Said Hasty: “Anytime we can help a coworker and friend who has been going through a serious medical issue, I’m glad we can come together through the community and give him the assistance and prayers he needs.”

Henry Ford of Wilkie Real Estate is a longtime friend and is assisting in the effort. “He’s not only a longtime friend, but he and his wife Michelle are godparents to my children. He’s a hunting partner and valued community servant. If we can help him by some small means through this game, it will be well worth the effort.”

The announcement of the game comes as the Roanoke Rapids Recreation Department has dedicated the December 2 Christmas Parade in honor of Hawkins.

The parade begins at 2 p.m.