It's been a month since hurricane Matthew tore through Haiti, devastating the country. Now, some local heroes are planning to help out in the rescue efforts.
Chief John Lyman and several firefighters from the Waterford Regional Fire department went through a check list Thursday afternoon, counting up medical supplies.
The four men are planning to head to Haiti after Thanksgiving to help those affected by the devastation.
“Haiti is a very poor country,” said Chief Lyman. “It’s the poorest country on this side of the world and so knowing that and knowing everything with the hurricane, they’ve been devastated when you watch those pictures when you see what’s going on it’s very sad.”
“What I hope is we can go to work, get our hands dirty and help somebody,” said firefighter Hector Martinez
Lyman told 7 Action News he came up with the idea after being inspired by his daughter who is heading to Haiti this week.
When he told a few of the firefighters, they were all in!
“We are in the service industry here in the fire service and we have been providing emergency care our whole careers,” said Lyman. “So to be able to take that training and what we know here and be able to take that down to Haiti yeah it’s a great feeling to be able to help those that really desperate for help down there.”
The men are have been raising money through a GoFundMe account.
“We have raised quite a bit of money and we are looking to raise a little bit more for medical supplies,” said Chief Lyman. “ We want to fill those bags up with medical supplies.”
Everyday, the firefighters risk their lives for those here in Waterford. Now, they are extending their big hearts to those in need in another part of the world.
“I think firefighters, paramedics in general have a servants heart and I think that is just what we do,” said Inspector John Phebus. “I think its our goal and I think we are happy to do it. I think a lot of good will come out of this.”
“Willing to do something for others is what drives us,” said Martinez. “It’s not the money. It’s not the fame. None of that. I think the whole industry of the fire department is being able to help others. They need help. That’s our spirit. we want to be able to do something for someone else.”
If you are interested in donating to help the firefighters raise more money for medical supplies, visit GoFundMe.com
