Chelsea Fire and Rescue to black out breast cancer

Chelsea Fire and Rescue Department is once again holding its popular fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. This year’s theme is “Black Out Breast Cancer,” and the department is currently selling T-shirts marked with their “Black Out” logo for $15. All proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama.

“Our department does not make anything off this,” said Chelsea Fire Chief Wayne Shirley. “It’s one of three fundraisers we do a year and a very dear cause to us.”

The department started this program last October to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness month. Last year’s theme, Chelsea Turns Pink, was a big success. This year’s fundraiser will conclude with a special ceremony on Black Out Chelsea Day during the Chelsea Hornets versus Pelham Panthers football game on October 19.

“The firefighters really got on board with this,” Shirley said. “Our department will wear a firefighter’s version of the Black Out shirt in October as their uniform.”

Shirley said he hoped the community maintained its excitement for the event, noting an outpouring of support following a July preview on Facebook.

“We quickly had good comments and people sharing the news,” he said. “Last year’s support was great, and we’re looking forward to that response again.”