Donations Help Chatham Fire Department Purchase New Materials

CHATHAM, NJ — Earlier this month, the Chatham Jaycees presented the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Company with a $1500 donation to express their appreciation for their service.

The funds will be used to purchase fire prevention materials for distribution during public education events throughout Chatham Township, officials said.

"We are so grateful for the longstanding support and partnership with the Chatham Jaycees. "This funding will go a long way to increase awareness and educate our community on fire prevention and safety," said Richard Gentles, President of the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Company.

With this funding, the fire department said that it will continue to fulfill its mission of "saving lives and property, promoting public safety, and cultivating community support through volunteerism, fundraising, and collaboration."

Gentles said that the distribution of simple and engaging handouts that pique the public's (especially children's) interest helps educate and raise awareness about the dangers of fire hazards.

For example, coloring books enable adults to explain simple, life-saving steps to children in the event of a fire, educating and empowering them to be more aware of the dangers of fire hazards and how to avoid them.

The Chatham Jaycees, an acronym for JCs or Junior Chamber of Commerce, is a service organization with two guiding principles: leadership development and community development.

"Jaycees are committed to supporting our community and ensuring its safety. We are happy to support such a wonderful cause and are grateful to the fine men and women of the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Company for their volunteer service," Chatham Jaycees President William Heap said.

The Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department, founded in 1925, is made up of about 50 men and women who respond to fire and emergency calls on a regular basis. They are open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, and are entirely run by volunteers.

The department, which has its headquarters on River Road and a second station on Southern Boulevard, responds to about 300 calls per year, both within Chatham Township and as mutual aid to departments in neighboring communities.