In a collaborative effort to support volunteer fire departments across the U.S. and Canada, MSA Safety, DuPont Personal Protection, and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) are providing critical personal protective equipment through the annual Globe Gear Giveaway.
This initiative addresses the challenge many volunteer fire departments face in securing budgetary resources for up-to-date turnout gear, essential for the safety, health, and effectiveness of firefighters.
For the year 2024, the program, now in its thirteenth iteration, will grant 13 eligible volunteer fire departments each with four sets of turnout gear and helmets.
This contribution totals 52 jackets, 52 pants, and 52 helmets, aiming to enhance the safety of department members.
Moreover, the first 500 departments to apply will receive a complimentary NVFC membership, further supporting their operations.
The NVFC, representing volunteer firefighters, underscores the importance of this program.
“The safety of volunteer firefighters is a top priority of the NVFC,” stated NVFC chair Steve Hirsch.
He expressed gratitude towards MSA and DuPont for their dedication to safeguarding first responders.
Bob Apel, MSA Safety’s executive director of global fire service and digital experience, highlighted the program’s role in supporting volunteer firefighters.
“This program allows us to support our valuable volunteer firefighters so they can help keep their communities safe and be there when their neighbors are in need,” said Apel.
He emphasized MSA’s mission to ensure workplace safety, noting that partnerships like this are crucial in achieving their goal.
DuPont’s commitment to the fire service community was also emphasized.
“We are honored to give back in thanks to those that selflessly serve others and leverage our over 60 years of science and commitment to the fire service community in bringing trusted solutions to departments with limited resources,” said Stephanie Vrakas, NA emergency response segment leader at DuPont.
Eligibility for the Globe Gear Giveaway requires departments to be over 50% volunteer, serve a population of 25,000 or less, be located in the U.S.
or Canada, be a member of the NVFC, and demonstrate a need for the gear.
Departments interested in applying for the giveaway have until June 1 to submit their applications through the NVFC website.
Winners will be announced monthly from July to December, offering numerous departments the opportunity to enhance their safety and operational capabilities.
The Globe Gear Giveaway initiative by MSA, DuPont, and the NVFC represents a vital support mechanism for volunteer fire departments, many of which operate with limited financial resources.
By providing essential protective gear, this program contributes to the overall resilience of local communities.
The collaboration between industry leaders and the NVFC exemplifies a successful partnership model, leveraging corporate social responsibility to address critical needs within public safety sectors.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that those who volunteer to protect their communities have access to the necessary tools to do so safely and effectively.
