Paddington Firefighters Raise Over £70K for Grenfell Victims
Nine heroic firefighters from Paddington’s A21 Red Watch have smashed their fundraising target, raising over £70,000 to support Grenfell Tower victims and families. Alongside The Firefighters Charity, the crew are giving back after being among the first responders at the June 2017 tragedy.
From the Frontline to Fundraising
The Paddington Red Watch team were on the scene during the devastating Grenfell Tower fire. Despite their best efforts alongside fellow London Fire Brigade crews, the disaster led to tragic loss of life and forced many residents into temporary homes with nothing.
“This was a hugely traumatic event for everyone involved,” said a spokesperson for the crew. “As firefighters who attended, the aftermath affected us physically and emotionally. We relied on the support of colleagues, the organisation, and The Firefighters Charity.”
Running the London Marathon in Full Fire Gear
Determined to do more, nine firefighters are taking on the 2018 Virgin London Marathon — dressed in full firefighting kit and wearing breathing apparatus (BA) sets. This gear weighs a hefty 30kg combined, making their challenge no small feat.
The rest of the Paddington crew are backing their training and fundraising efforts, ensuring the money raised gets straight to those in the local community who need it most.
Supporting Local Heroes and Families
The £70K fundraiser will be split equally between Grenfell-focused groups and The Firefighters Charity. The chosen Grenfell charities are:
- The Harrow Club – Offers young people in the area life-changing opportunities and has worked tirelessly post-Grenfell to support local youth with activities and development programmes.
- Rugby Portobello Trust – Serving the community for over 15 years, this trust aids rehoused residents and provides vital services like parenting support and a community café.
The Firefighters Charity actively supports firefighters coping with injury, illness, or trauma, helping them face the daily life-and-death challenges of their heroic roles.
Your Support Makes a Difference
All these are nationally accredited, trusted charities ensuring your donations reach those who truly need them. Any contribution, big or small, will directly help Grenfell victims, families, and firefighters still dealing with the aftermath.
Learn more about the incredible work of these charities:
- 123 – Charity No. 1093387
Together, Paddington Firefighters and The Firefighters Charity are making sure the Grenfell community gets the help and hope they deserve.
