Christina Ottaviano, far left, poses for a photo with members of the Fairmount Fire Company on Sept 9.
Members of Lansdale’s Fairmount Fire Company received some unexpected gifts on Thursday night, courtesy of a local woman who organized an impromptu collection effort following the fire company’s efforts during Hurricane Ida.
Christina Ottaviano, 40, of Lansdale, organized the donations on behalf of more than a dozen area residents, seeking to reward the fire company for their efforts during the flooding caused by Hurricane Ida earlier this month. Borough officials said the fire company participated in at least three local water rescues during the storm, and praised their efforts adding that they “undoubtably saved lives.”
“I felt that the volunteers are invisible heroes. They're out at 3 a.m. when everyone is sleeping. These people have full time jobs, and families. But they're running into the danger while everyone else is running away from it,” said Ottaviano. “But it's rare that anyone actually sees what they do, due to the nature of emergencies. Especially during Hurricane Ida — the rain was just pouring down in buckets. But they were there, pulling people out of their cars and looking for survivors in piles of matchsticks that used to be houses.”
Included in the donations were several hundred dollars-worth of cash and checks, along with homemade goods and pizza that was purchased by a good Samaritan. Ottaviano added that others had pledged to send in check donations via mail, and she hopes her efforts inspire others to do the same.
“They're always there for us, and it's just expected, but it shouldn't be,” Ottaviano said. “They're our special heroes and they deserve recognition. I did what I could in a week's worth of organization of local residents. I know it was nothing compared to what they do, but I felt so compelled to do something. Anyone can, right? So I did.”
Fairmount Fire Company officials said they were moved by the gesture, adding they feel grateful to live in a caring community.
“It’s wonderful, all the work Christina put into gathering donations and the overall support we receive from our neighbors in general,” said Gavin Butler, Fairmount Fire Company Deputy Chief. “She put a lot of effort into organizing a great dinner for us, as well, which was awesome. This truly is a wonderful, caring community, and I can’t express it enough — we are extremely grateful.”
To make a donation to Fairmount Fire Company, click here. For interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter, click here.
See also:
WATCH: Remnants of Hurricane Ida Wreak Havoc Across North Penn Area
Congressman Fitzpatrick Announces $857,000 Grant for Fairmount Fire Company
Fairmount Fire Company Seeks to Recruit Daytime Volunteers
Flags Lowered to Half-Staff as Fairmount Fire Company Mourns Loss of Two Longtime Members
Fairmount Fire Co. Partners with North Montco Tech to Bring Easter Bunny to Lansdale
