LIBERTY- The Sullivan 180 Healthiest Fire Department will conclude on September 1, 2023, with winners being announced at the 94th Annual Sullivan County Volunteer Fireman’s Parade on Saturday, September 9, hosted by the Roscoe/Rockland Fire Company. The two departments that earn the most turtle points will be eligible for a grant in the amount of $15,000 and $10,000, respectively. These grants are made possible with the generous support from Aileen Gunther. Additional “Turtle Awards” in the amount of $500 will be given to departments for specific activities.
“This challenge provided great opportunities for our Firefighters to participate in some healthy fun, healthy creative meals and thinking outside of the box challenges.” said Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild. The Departments will be recognized for the challenge at the Sullivan County Firefighters Parade in Roscoe. This is another opportunity to honor our brave firefighters of Sullivan County and to show the communities we serve the commitment and hard work their firefighters have completed during the challenge to remain healthy.”
Since January when the challenge kicked off, 17 departments have engaged in activities (challenges) to enhance the physical and mental health of their members. Departments received credit in the form of “turtle points” for each health focused activity they completed. The challenges were meant to be easy and attainable but impactful. Activities ranged from serving healthier meals during drill and meeting nights; joining as a department family and hiking or walking local trails; attending health related seminars and becoming trained in suicide prevention. There were event water consumption weight loss challenges.
“The Healthiest Fire Department Challenge was not only a way of acknowledging the selfless acts of these incredible volunteers; but also an intentional effort to raise awareness about the health risks that accompany firefighters, even outside of running into emergency situations,” said Lindsay Wheat, Outreach Coordinator for Sullivan 180.
The parade steps off at 2:00 p.m. at the intersection of Gulf Road and Stewart Avenue in Roscoe, ending at Niforatos Field. The award ceremony begins at approximately 5:30 p.m. All are welcome to watch the parade and cheer on the departments.
