Fire Department Coffee (FDC) is fighting against breast cancer this month, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The coffee company launched an initiative to raise funds for firefighters diagnosed with breast cancer through its Fire Dept. Coffee Club and Fire Dept. Shirt Club.
“Breast cancer — and so many other types of cancer — affect our sisters and brothers in the fire service,” said Luke Schneider, founder and CEO of the FDC, in a statement. “This October, we’re focused on making sure no firefighter goes into this battle alone.”
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 297,000 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed will all cancers and a 14% higher risk of dying from it than the general public because of the exposure they face in the line of duty. This increased risk includes breast cancer, and the likelihood is elevated for both male and female firefighters.
FDC has crafted a limited-edition roast for October’s Fire Dept. Coffee Club to raise awareness and funds for firefighters with breast cancer. The coffee bag features a pink label with the words “Fueling the Fight” wrapped around a firehose in the shape of a breast cancer ribbon.
Inside, coffee lovers will discover a rich, smooth roast that will create a deliciously distinctive aroma in homes, offices and fire stations nationwide. It’s a Peruvian and Ugandan blend that is medium-dark roast, perfect for enjoying during cooler fall weather, the company says.
Members of the FDC Shirt Club can wear their support on their chest with a limited-edition pink T-shirt featuring the same design of a fire hose shaped like a breast cancer ribbon.
FDC partners with fire departments and charitable organizations over the course of the year through its monthly club. Each purchase of the FDC Club roast generates $2 for the cause and every Fire Dept. Shirt Club purchase contributes $5.
This month, 100% of those funds will go directly to the FDC Foundation, which will distribute it to firefighters to help make their lives and their cancer fight a bit easier.
“Whether you’re sipping your morning cup of coffee or walking around town wearing the ‘Fueling the Fight’ shirt, you’ll feel good knowing that you’re helping firefighters who are battling for their lives,” said Jason Patton, FDC senior vice president, in a statement. “We’re excited for this effort in October, and we hope to raise more money than ever before.”
The coffee company says it is committed to helping as many firefighters as possible. Those battling breast cancer who could benefit from support should visit the Fire Department Coffee Foundation page and complete the form under “How Can We Help?”
