Organization Plans To Pay Off Fallen Worcester Fire Lt. Jason Menard's Mortgage
WORCESTER (CBS) – Fundraising efforts are underway for fallen Worcester Fire Lt. Jason Menard, who is being hailed as a hero for saving his fellow firefighters before he was trapped and killed on Wednesday.
Menard is survived by his wife and three children. He is described as a proud father and dedicated husband who "loved nothing more than his family."
On Thursday, the City of Worcester announced the establishment of the Menard Children's Fund establish a memorial fund to benefit Menard's family.
"Jason had a passion for his job and was dedicated to the oath he took to protect the Worcester community without question. His heroic actions are proof of that dedication and his selfless commitment to not only his community but his fellow firefighters," the city said in a statement.
Donations can be made through the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts website.
Checks made payable to "PFFM Foundation c/o The Menard Children's Fund" can also be mailed to:
Worcester Fire Department Credit Union
34 Glennie St.
Worcester, MA 01605
Meanwhile, a New York City charity is raising money with plans to pay off the Menard family's mortgage.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors first responders and helps the families they leave behind.
Tunnel to Towers will officially announce plans to help Menard's family during an event at the Worcester Fire Department on Friday. Organizers hope to have the Menard family's mortgage paid off by Christmas thanks to donations from around the country.
Tunnel to Towers previously paid off more than 150 mortgages, including the family of slain Weymouth Police Sgt. Michael Chesna.