Ferndale Firefighters Raise More Than $1,400 for Breast Cancer Awareness

Ferndale firefighters have raised more than $1,400 so far as part of their breast cancer awareness campaign.

Firefighters and city staff have been wearing pink t-shirts while on duty this month to promote breast cancer awareness and raise money to help find a cure. They've been selling the same style t-shirts for $20 each, with all funds benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

It's part of a national effort by the International Association of Fire Fighters, said Gary McMenamin, community relations chair for the Ferndale Firefighters Local 812.

He told Ferndale City Council members at their meeting on Monday that he was proud of the support the community has shown for the effort.

"The support has been phenomenal," he said, noting that they have raised more than $1,400 so far. "When I think about that it does give me some chills. It just shows you how this community comes together and how we do support the things that are important."

McMenamin said the Ferndale Fire Department plans to do this fundraiser every year, and said it has also had the benefit of bringing more people into the local fire stations.

"It's brought some people into the fire station ... seeing the trucks, meeting firefighters," he said. "We love that ... These are your fire trucks, these are your facilities. It's nice to see people come in and be interested."

Shirts are still available for purchase at Ferndale City Hall and at both Ferndale fire stations - 1635 Livernois and 1070 E. Nine Mile Road - while supplies last.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Find out about more Oakland County breast cancer awareness initiatives here.