Niagara Falls’ Newest Firefighters Giving Back to the Community

NIAGARA FALLS, ON - The City’s newest career firefighters are giving back to the community before they even complete their training, and they are inviting residents to support their efforts.

On Friday, September 11, beginning at 10 a.m., the recruit class of six new firefighters will take turns climbing the 660 stairs to the top of the Skylon Tower to raise funds for Project SHARE and the Niagara Health Foundation.

The climb coincides with the 25th anniversary of the tragedy at the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001. To honour the first responders who lost their lives during and following the events of 9/11, each recruit will climb the Skylon Tower four times in bunker gear, representing roughly the number of stairs climbed by first responders in the original World Trade Center towers.

“We are always very proud of our recruit classes, and this is just another example of our firefighters going above and beyond just responding to emergencies to serve the community,” said Fire Chief Jo Zambito. "We would love to see the community supporting this recruit class fundraiser and the very worthy causes that will benefit from the public's donations.”

Donations can be made by e-transfer to nfpffa@gmail.com, by cheque payable to the Niagara Falls Professional Firefighters Association, or by cash during the event.

“We hope to see the public out cheering our class, recognizing the sacrifice of firefighters that day back in 2001, and contributing to these great charities that help so many in our community,” said Firefighter Matt Hetherington. 

For more information, please contact:
Matt Hetherington
Probationary Firefighter
Niagara Falls Fire Department
416-723-2092
mhetherington@niagarafalls.ca