A season to reflect and give thanks...

As the WPIFF winds down after another year, we reflect on the generosity of our donors and supporters and the heroism of the U.S. Fire Administration service men and women of this country. Our 3rd Annual Chili Cook-Off provided us the funds to grant $29,000 to fire departments, department personnel, and their families in need. While we are happy to report these grants and a successful year for the WPIFF, we also realize that 2007 was a difficult year for many fire department personnel and their families.

Each year in this country, we lose an average of 100 firefighters. This year, we lost 109 firefighters in the line of duty, 57 of whom were career firefighters and an astounding 52 were volunteers.

The stories of these men and women vary. Some were just beginning their life journey, like Austin Cheek, a volunteer firefighter who was just 19 years old when he died of asphyxiation while trapped inside a burning building. Others were like 76 year old Anthony Catania, a volunteer fire commissioner and safety officer who devoted more than half of his life to protecting his New York community from fires.

While each and every one of these 109 individuals has a unique story, they share a common bond: they devoted their lives to protect their communities. They responded to the call – day or night. These men and women leave behind a legacy and countless family and friends. We ask that you remember them and their families during this holiday season.


If you would like to learn more about the WPI Firefighters’ Fund or make a donation, please visit www.wpiff.org. You can find a full list of the grants we have made to date along with information about our organization, our annual fundraising event, our board of directors, and much more. Thank you and Happy Holidays!