Suffolk University’s Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) fraternity worked with Metal Tronics Inc. to construct a new Firefighters’ Boot to replace the one that was stolen last year from the Hanover Street fire station. The “fill the boot” money is collected to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
In September of 2013, Engine 8, Ladder 1 of Boston Fire, located at 392 Hanover Street reported to Boston Police that the charity “Fire Boot” and associated lock box were stolen from in front of the station by an unknown person. The fire boot was found along side the empty lock box floating in the water fountain on the Prado / Paul Revere Mall. The amount of money that was stolen from the lockbox is still unknown.
On Thursday February 27th, members of ΣΑΕ joined with designers from Metal Tronics Inc. and Boston Firefighter’s to debut the new and improved Firefighter’s boot. “It means a lot to give back to the community here in the North End,” said Collin McQuade, the head of chaplin and risk management for ΣΑΕ. “We’re affiliated with Suffolk University and Suffolk is a big part of the North End. When we heard what had happened we knew that there was something we could do to help.”
The boot isn’t your average “fill the boot” donation boot, over 12 employees worked on the design and fabrication to ensure that no money will be taken in the future. “The boot and casing is made with thick, solid steel that is welded and fabricated at every seem,” said Jim Andalorom, the owner of Metal Tronics, Inc. “The entire box is dipped in a solution, powder coated, and baked at high heat which will allow it to withstand people and the weather elements.”
The boot is off to a great start with many people on hand making significant contributions immediately after the unveiling.
Photos by Conor Finley.
It is refreshing to see some press on the students in the area doing some good for the neighborhood. So often on this page they are blamed for the trash, noise, crime etc There are in fact many residents in this area who do care a great deal about the neighborhood regardless of how long they have lived here. Thank you for this wonderful reminder
My son was part of the presentation of the new boot celebration sponsored by Suffolk University’s Sigma Alpha Epsilon . He was very proud to be giving back something so special to those firefighter that was taken away by crime. I, as a parent was also proud. There is good people in this world
These students from Suffolk make me proud to be a Suffolk grad. Well done.