The Maple Ridge Fire Department Charities Committee began their fundraising efforts in 2002.
One of the firefighter's family members was diagnosed with cancer so the firefighters rallied together and organized a head shave in support of cancer research. The event grew to incorporate all of the emergency services in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows and was held at the annual Home Show in May. Members of the Maple Ridge Fire Department, Pitt Meadows Fire Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Ridge-Meadows Search & Rescue and British Columbia Ambulance Service obtained sponsorship to shave their heads. Visitors to the Home Show also made donations, bid on spectacular raffle items and had the opportunity to have their heads shaved for a cash donation. All proceeds went to the Maple Ridge Hospital Oncology Unit.
Over time, several other events were organized to support the Friends in Need Food Bank, Christmas Hamper Society, Vancouver General Hospital / BC Children's Hospital Burn Units, and Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Review a summary of our charity funds.