INDIAN ROCKS BEACH – Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is awarding much needed equipment to Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District during a ceremony at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 29, at Fire Station 27.
Otherwise unavailable due to budget constraints, the department benefits with a John Deere Gator Utility Terrain Vehicle and Medlite Transport Deluxe System worth more than $16,700.
The donated vehicle and system will increase the department’s efficiency and time in transporting patients to ambulances through difficult terrain such as sandy beaches. Since 2005, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has donated more than $1.1 million to first responders and public safety organizations in Florida.
“Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation gives us the opportunity to show our appreciation in the best way possible, by giving back,” said Sarju Patel, franchisee of the nearby Largo Firehouse Subs restaurant. “We are honored to provide this essential equipment to help save lives in the community.”
The presentation takes place at Fire Station 27 located at 301 First St. Attendees to the event include local firefighters and their families, franchisee Sarju Patel, area representative Richard Taylor and Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation development manager Meghan Bender.
Each restaurant recycles leftover, 5-gallon pickle buckets and sells them to guests for $2. Donation canisters on register counters explain the nonprofit’s mission and collect spare change, while the round up program allows guests to literally “round up” their bill to the nearest dollar. All funds raised benefit the Foundation.
In 2005, Firehouse Subs created the nonprofit, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, with the mission to provide funding, life-saving equipment and educational opportunities to aid first-responders and public safety organizations. Through the foundation, Firehouse Subs has given more than $5.2 million to hometown heroes, including fire and police departments and EMS organizations.
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