LYNN — Members of the Lynn Fire Department raced up the stairs at TD Garden and raised $3,300 for families of fallen first responders.
The Lynn Fire Department made a significant impact at the BFIT Challenge at TD Garden, emerging as the top fundraisers while supporting a cause close to the hearts of firefighters and police officers across Massachusetts. The event, which tests participants’ endurance by having them climb the stadium stairs, raised critical funds for the 100 Club of Massachusetts, an organization dedicated to providing immediate support to the families of first responders who lose their lives or are severely injured in the line of duty.
Twelve members of the Lynn Fire Department participated this year, including Lt. Mario Lopez of the Lynn Fire Department, who described the event, saying, “If a person could participate, basically, it’s just up and down the stairs as quickly as they can do it. Little competition, but it’s a good reason.”
The department has been actively participating in the BFIT Challenge since 2020, demonstrating its commitment to supporting fellow first responders and their families.
The 100 Club of Massachusetts, founded in 1959 by Norman Knight, Howard W. Fitzpatrick, Richard S. Robie, and George Swartz, has historically operated quietly behind the scenes, providing financial assistance and long-term support to families of fallen or injured firefighters and police officers.
Tracie Hines, the organization’s first-ever executive director, explained, “We can be there within 24 to 48 hours to provide immediate financial support if it’s needed. For our line-of-duty families, the benefits and support continue for the lifetime of the spouse.”
She noted that some families have remained connected to the club for decades, building a supportive community across generations.
Hines emphasized the importance of events like the BFIT Challenge, which has been a long-standing fundraising partnership for the 100 Club. “This year is the 10th anniversary,” she said. “When it first started, the 100 Club was the only benefiting charity. Since then, it’s grown and expanded to include other charities, but all the money raised still comes back to support the families of firefighters and police officers.”
Lt. Lopez echoed the significance of the 100 Club’s work. “We absolutely think the 100 Club is a fantastic organization; it’s great that it’s finally getting out there,” he said. “They show up pretty much with a check in hand—but anybody could write a check. The 100 Club does that, and more immediately.”
The BFIT Challenge not only provides a fun and competitive environment for participants but also highlights the ongoing need to support the families of those who put their lives on the line every day. For the Lynn Fire Department, it’s a chance to give back to the community they serve while honoring the sacrifices of fellow first responders.
