WEHCO#3 Fire Museum Disaster Relief

WEHCO#3 Fire Museum is a 501c-3 non-profit museum located in the City of Biloxi, MS and housed in the city's only remaining original Volunteer Fire House. When Katrina devastated Biloxi and the entire area along the Gulf of Mexico in 2005 we were given a gift we never expected. Volunteers from all over the country, even some from out of the country, quickly came to our aid by whatever means available and provided assistance in whatever way they could. People helping people asking for nothing in return, just the opportunity to make a difference no matter how big or small. Since that time the Musuem has been afforded the opportunity to "pay-it-forward" by assisting those in need in other areas affected by hurricanes, tornados, flooding or whatever disaster may come. Previous trips have been funded by generous donations from the public and assistance from the City of Biloxi and other local government agencies. Each time a situation exists where help is needed, the scramble is on to hopefully raise the funds needed to make the trips happen. There are travel costs, equipment rentals for removing debris, supplies, fuel costs to reach the location and return home, etc. All trips are attended strictly by volunteers who give freely of their own time and effort to make this happen. Our hope is to be able to raise funds to be ready and willing when a situation warrants so that we can roll on a moments notice.
Recently, tornados devastated an area in North MS just days before Christmas. An entire Fire Department in the Three Forks community was wiped out, station equipment and all. Additionally, several members of the department we equally affected at their residences. The City of Biloxi donated a Fire Truck and obtained donations of other necessary fire equipment tohelp this department get back to the business of protecting and assisting this area so gravely affected by the storms. The musuem is currently planning a trip to the area to assist in clearing of property and whatever else is needed at this time. Our hope is that we can raise enough funds to ensure this trip happens and hopefully to secure future trips so that our assistance will always be available.