The Houston Fire Department announced today the establishment of the Fire Fighters Foundation of Houston (FFFH) a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to provide non-governmental support to Houston’s firefighters.
Mayor Bill White, Fire Chief Phil Boriskie, President of the Houston Professional Firefighters Association Local 341 Roland Chavez and the President and Chairman of the Fire Fighters Foundation of Houston Board William E. King gave brief remarks introducing the foundation, the first in Houston to provide non-governmental funding to Houston’s firefighters.
“Our firefighters are recognized as the best in the country,” said Mayor White. “It is our responsibility to ensure they have all the tools they need to protect the lives and property of Houstonians, and to protect themselves as they perform their duty.”
According to King, the FFFH will help provide Houston’s bravest men and women with the necessary tools, technology, and equipment so that they may be able to best serve and protect the citizens of Houston. The foundation will also provide financial assistance as needed to families of firefighters who have perished in the line of duty.
“I am very excited to work with Mayor White, former President Bush and the rest of the board members to make this foundation that will support our firefighters a reality – it seems the least we can do,” said King.
Houston Professional Firefighters Association President Roland Chavez expressed his thanks on behalf of the firefighters.
“I am excited that this foundation supporting Houston firefighters will enable our dedicated professionals to safely continue serving this great city,” said Chavez
Fire Chief Phil Boriskie said he feels very excited and blessed that members of this community are supporting the Houston Fire Fighter Foundation.
“Ultimately, this support gives Houston firefighters a greater chance of returning home each morning to their families,” said Boriskie “Rest assured that whatever the worst moment may be in your life, the Houston Fire Department will be ‘Answering the Call’ with the utmost professionalism, compassion, and respect.”
With support from community leaders, firefighters, friends and volunteers, The FFFH will host its landmark kick-off event and fundraiser on September 11, 2006 to celebrate our local heroes and honor of the fifth anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001.
The foundation is underwritten by several entities, including ClearChannel Outdoor, Haynes and Boone, L.L.P., Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, L.L.P and Perry Homes. The nine member board of directors includes: William E. King, President and Chairman of the Board; George Hittner, Secretary and Founder; Jeff Dinerstein, Treasurer and General Counsel; Leroy Hermes; Bobby Singh; Jarvis Hollingsworth ;Michael Stevens; C. C. Lee and Frank Markentonis.
Additional information may be found on the FFFH website at www.fffhouston.com