Martin community launches campaign to buy firefighters new breathing equipment

MARTIN, Tenn. — A community campaign launched this week in Martin is raising money to purchase new breathing equipment for local firefighters, organizers say.

The Friend of a Firefighter campaign, backed by local businesses, is seeking $200,000 to buy 24 self-contained breathing apparatus units. This equipment provides firefighters with clean air in smoke-filled conditions.

The need for new gear came to light during a town hall meeting last week, where first responders described the state of their current equipment.

“What is shocking, and what was discussed in that town meeting, is the equipment that they currently have is near its end. They don’t have enough units, and the ones that they have are nearing their end,” said John Sellers, owner of Martin’s Coffee and Bakery.

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Sellers said years of fraud contributed to the shortage. “There had been years of fraud that had been known, not rumored, but I had no idea of the severity of that. And in that meeting, several of the firefighters stood up and said that they do not have the basic equipment to keep us safe,” Sellers said.

How to donate

The campaign is partnering with WE Care, a local nonprofit, to collect donations. Organizers are also seeking volunteers to help with fundraising events and outreach.

“Friend of a Firefighter campaign is where we are going to bring our community together to raise $200,000 for the breathing apparatus that our firemen are not able to purchase,” Sellers said.

Donations can be made online through WE Care or in person at the WE Care office by cash or check, with a memo noting the Friend of a Firefighter campaign.

An interest meeting is scheduled for March 5 at 5:30 p.m. at Martin’s Coffee and Bakery, where organizers plan to confirm the campaign and divide responsibilities.

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