The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is working with local authorities in West, Texas to set up a fund to assist survivors of the fertilizer plant this week. They are spearheading an effort to procure equipment to replace what was damaged by the blast.
"This fire and explosion have devastated the entire town in which so many people know and care about each other," said Chief Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the NFFF. "We want to ensure the survivors and coworkers of those who died in the line of duty know that the entire fire service family is holding them in our hearts and doing all we can to offer support."
As part of the Foundation's mission to assist the survivors of the fallen, the Texas LAST (Local Assistance State Team) was activated on Wednesday night to provide support to local officials and public safety personnel in West.
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation has established a national fund to accept monetary donations to assist the survivors and co-workers of the fire and EMS personnel who died in the line of duty. Checks can be mailed to:
NFFF c/o West, Texas Fire and EMS Fallen Hero Fund
P.O. Drawer 498
Emmitsburg, MD 21727.
Donations also can be made by credit card at www.regonline.com/westtx. All donated funds will be used to assist the survivors and co-workers to rebuild their lives and support the programs and services they will need.
As a result of the blast, the station along with the apparatus, equipment and turnout gear were destroyed or badly damaged. If you would like to donate these items, please send a message with your contact information to www.firehero.org/contact and the foundation will share this with the West, Texas Fire Department.
