The Belvue Township Fire Department recently launched a Cadet Firefighter Program to introduce local youth to the fire service while developing teamwork, leadership, community service, and the skills needed to become the next generation of volunteer firefighters. One of our greatest needs is ensuring every cadet has personal protective equipment (PPE) to safely participate in approved training activities. Currently, our cadets are utilizing surplus gear obtained through the Forestry Service, which has allowed us to get the program started but is not a sustainable long-term solution for properly equipping each participant. 

Donations would be used to purchase individually assigned PPE for each cadet, including a helmet, protective coat and pants, gloves, and boots, at an estimated cost of approximately $950 per youth. As an all-volunteer department, our firefighters are already contributing their time, experience, and mentorship to train these young people and help the program succeed. A donor’s $950 investment can fully outfit one cadet from helmet to boots, replacing surplus equipment with gear appropriate for their training and development. This project is more than purchasing protective equipment—it is an investment in young people who have already chosen to serve their community and in the future of the volunteer fire service in Belvue Township.