After adopting a resolution at a council meeting, Hardyston became the first town in Sussex County to join the Guardians of the Ribbon Northern New Jersey Chapter, bringing awareness for women battling breast cancer in their community. The Town Council joined with the Hardyston First Aid Squad in their resolution to acknowledge “Cares Enough to Wear Pink” taking place Oct. 25 to 27th. Mayor Ken Kievit and the Hardyston Town Council, together with the First Aid Squad, wore pink to show support for those women battling cancer. “Our purpose was to raise awareness and bring people together, but also to give those who are battling this disease an overwhelming feeling of hope and knowledge that they have our support,” stated Township Manager Marianne Smith. Mayor Kievit agreed that our purpose with this effort is to support struggling members of our community by letting them know they are not alone in their battle. First Aid Squad Captain Patrice Bell clarified next steps. “Our squad, with support of the town council, plans to organize several campaigns to fight for those who have lost the ability to fight for themselves. We will be asking for public support and working to raise understanding and awareness.”

Guardians of the Ribbon is a non-profit organization that drives PINK Fire Trucks across the United States, a movement that was started in Phoenix, Arizona by firefighter Dave Graybill. Through the program, pink fire trucks are brought to cities where fundraisers are being held to generate spectators who are invited to sign the truck as a survivor, in memory of someone, or just in support. Most of the proceeds remain within the community where the fundraiser is held to assist families that may be struggling. As the pink fire truck makes its way across the country, it is our job to also raise awareness in our own community. Perhaps the Pink Heals Tour’s most surprising attribute is that the organization makes no money. Instead of gathering funds to distribute to cancer victims through its own efforts, the Pink Heals Tour’s initiative is to influence and inspire communities to set up their own cancer relief funds.

To learn more please go to www.pinkfiretrucks.org or e-mail the Hardyston First Aid Squad at hardystonems@gmail.com.