May 2020: Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Alytus Firefighters Fund. The Committee successfully raised a little over $12,000 for the firefighters. The funds have already been sent to Alytus for the benefit of the firefighters. During these very challenging times, your generous support has been greatly appreciated.
On October 16, 2019, a devastating fire took place at the Ekologistika tire recycling/storage facility in Alytus, Lithuania. Covering an area of approximately 2,000 square meters, the fire took more than a week to extinguish. Initially working with very limited equipment, the firefighters battled the situation tirelessly. Extremely toxic levels of chemicals were released into the air and environment. Scientists and doctors have subsequently reported on the damaging health effects to the firefighters and environmental problems. The Alytus-Rochester Sister Cities Committee has undertaken fundraising efforts for the firefighters to help them cope with any resulting health issues.
Our campaign is seeing to raise funds for each firefighter (45 firefighters).
Please consider making a donation to help these individuals who have risked their lives to help the people of Alytus. The Alytus-Rochester Sister Cities Committee has set up the Firefighters of Alytus Fund on the website GoFundMe https://www.gofundme.com/f/wx3x6-firefighters-of-alytus