Firefighters assist NYC disaster victims (Sept. 15, 2001)

Members of the WTFD gathered with Police and First Aid Squad members on September 14th and 15th to assist with the collection of material and food for the rescue workers in New York. The collection drive was put together in one day by squad members who were looking for a way to help out in the aftermath of the September 11 tragedy.

Hundreds of pounds of food and material were collected from generous residents and loaded into several vehicles for transport. Over $10,000 was also collected for the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army. One of the largest donations came from Flocktown School which raised $1800. While the squad printed up flyers promoting the drive Thursday night, the Township DPW made signs that were placed throughout the Township, directing donators to the Police station. Friday and Saturday saw a steady stream of cars dropping off goods and money. In addition to those donations, the Panther Valley Country Club also baked 2000 cookies for relief workers, Sears Hardware donated work gloves, tools, and tarps, Mail Boxes Etc. and Hemmings Moving & Storage donated shipping boxes, and Harrington Construction donated a tractor trailer to haul the supplies to New York. The First Aid Squad also donated medical supplies.

Many Police officers, firefighters and squad members were frustrated that they could not take a more direct role in assisting their comrades in New York, but this effort allowed them another means of participation.

Our heartfelt thanks to those who participated and donated.

Photo of collection point at Police HQ...

The convoy ready to roll...

After arrival at one of the drop off points....