A friend who is a volunteer with the Austin fire service community has been receiving many calls about how to help the volunteer fire and EMS guys in West.  There is a foundation, called WPI Firefighters’ Fund, which provides support and assistance to the families or survivors of injured or fallen firefighters. It also assists volunteer fire departments with equipment and other items needed to operate and protect their communities. For over 10 years, this foundation has provided over $800,000 in grants to volunteer fire departments. The Board of Directors consists of fire service professionals, business leaders, and medical professionals.  Their webpage also includes news updates on the West explosion tragedy.

Central Texas is very appreciative of all firefighters. If you’d like to learn more or make a tax deductible donation, please go to www.wpiff.org. Or, you may send a tax-deductible donation to:

WPI Firefighters’ Fund

200 Greenleaf Street

Fort Worth, Texas 76107

The Red Cross opened a shelter near West, and is also providing food and mental health support to those in need. If you know someone affected by this disaster, you may consult the Red Cross Safe & Well site to see if they’ve registered, or call the local hotline at 254-202-1100. If you would like to help, you can donate to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund at 1-800-RED-CROSS or on the Central Texas chapter website. http://www.redcross.org/tx/austin

Our neighbors in West have faced a terrible tragedy. Thank you for supporting them in this great time of need.