Making grants

The WPIFF has granted a total of $29,000 to fire departments in Texas and Oklahoma in 2007.

Funds raised from the chili cook-off have already been distributed to special firefighters who we would like you to know about. Here’s how all of the generous donations have made a difference in the lives of two firefighters and their families:

Family of Bill Bunch – Miami, Oklahoma
Injured - Line of Duty
Grant $9,000
Bill Bunch of the Miami, OK Fire Department was injured on November 13, 2006 while responding to a semi-tractor trailer fire on an overpass. While working the fire, he fell from the overpass, suffering bilateral femur fractures; heel fractures; scapula, clavicle, and facial fractures; and severe brain injury. Bunch is currently in rehabilitation at the Tejas House, in Austin, TX. Some of his injuries are permanent and require him to use a wheelchair. His wife, Janet, is working to renovate their home to fit Bunch’s wheelchair as well as learn how to care for him.

Capt. Roger Crues, Elmo Volunteer Fire Department FD
Injured – Line of Duty
Grant $10,000
Capt. Roger Crues was injured while attempting to rescue a fellow firefighter who was trapped inside a burning home. Crues suffered injuries to his right arm and hand, and in the past week has undergone a successful, corrective surgery and is currently in recovery. Crues is self-employed and has no insurance. The fire department does not have injury coverage and unfortunately the homeowners insurance will not cover the accident, as volunteer firefighters fall into a contractor’s category. The WPIFF was able to assist Capt. Crues and his family by granting them $10,000 to help cover expenses of his $30,000 surgery.

During this time of year as we prepare for the holidays, we ask you to remember your local and national firefighters. THANK YOU to all who have supported the WPIFF. You make these grants possible!

If you would like to donate to the WPIFF, please visit www.wpiff.org or contact Robin Williams at robin.williams@williams-pyro.com or 817.870.8006.