Firefighters go above and beyond each day by risking their lives for the community. But our local firefighters are on a mission to help, even after the smoke has cleared.
The Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Relief and Outreach Fund program started as a way to help other local firefighters in need. Now, it also provides money to help Corpus Christi residents start the recovery process after a house fire.
"We see firsthand the devastation that a house fire can bring to a family and our community. We want to continue to help even after we have rolled up our hose and went back to the station. So the outreach portion provides monetary assistance to families after they have been displaced due to a house fire," said C.C.F.D. Assistant Fire Chief Kenneth Erben.
Many of our local firefighters have been going "beyond the call of duty" since 2013 to help victims of tragedies.
"So far we have helped over 175 families and individuals and have given out over $70,000 since 2013," said Erben.
After they put out the fire, firefighters get to spend some time with the families and witness their suffering firsthand.
"Firefighters are community-minded already, that is why we chose this profession; this is what we do. It just seems like the right thing to do, and it has worked out so far," said Erben.
"It is strictly for local community, local citizens that had a residential house fire and has been displaced at least one night. We are going to be there if it’s a house fire so the firefighters on scene will notify one of the 5 board of directors, and we will get a contact information, and we will do the contacting. You can’t apply for funds from us. We recognize the need because we are there; we will make the contact and provide the assistance if they so desire," said Erben.
The Corpus Christi Professional Fire Fighters Association is spearheading fundraising efforts to continue to provide aid for those in need.
"All the money we fundraise is all done off duty by all local firefighters here in Corpus Christi. One of our biggest ones is a golf tournament that is held every September," said Erben.
The fire department’s biggest fundraiser to help raise money is its annual golf tournament. The 4th Annual Fallen Heroes 343 Charity Golf Classic Tournament will take place on September 10, 2018 at Northshore Country Club. Check in at 10:30 A.M. with a Shotgun Start at 1:00P.M.
For more information head to their their website OR call our CC Professional Fire Fighters Association office at (361) 814-4437.
