Fair Haven’s Adopted Fire House in New York City
Following the disastrous attacks on the World Trade Center towers 9/11/01, the Fair Haven Fire Company sought a way to assist fellow firefighters in nearby New York City. A committee was formed to investigate the possibilities. The idea that emerged was simple: Fair Haven wanted to assist the families of firefighters who had been lost — and of those who had survived — the tragedy of 9-11 in the manner that would be most helpful to the victims.
After a number of meetings the committee identified a particular FDNY firehouse that had lost 15 members in the tragedy and whose members were anxious to get our help. The firehouse of FDNY Engine Company 54, Ladder 4 and Battalion Chief 9, located at 48th Street and 8th Avenue became our “adopted” firehouse.
At the first meeting with FDNY members, it was concluded that the best thing that Fair Haven could do was help set up and serve at a Christmas party that was already planned for the firefighters’ children — and the children of their lost comrades. The Fair Haven team readily jumped in — and offered their services for setting up, serving and taking down the party, which was conducted at the FDNY firehouse. Given Fair Haven’s experience in running the annual Firemen’s Fair, this was a “piece of cake.”
The tradition of assisting with the Christmas party continued for three years. As the families of the 9/11 tradgedy have moved on to a “new place” in their lives, Fair Haven is no longer participating in the Christmas event. However, our bond with FDNY continues to be solid, and we expect that our vow to “Never Forget” will live on.
See FHFD-FDNY Event Pictures in our Photo Gallery