Firefighting is a dangerous sacrifice, and we always hope our communities respect and assist the men and women willing to bear that sacrifice to keep our communities safer.

The toll on the vital health of firefighters is one aspect of that sacrifice where neighbors can help ensure fire companies have the resources that they need.

As the Sun-Gazette reported in its April 11 edition, less than a year ago Stephen Yonkin, of the Williamsport Fire Bureau, spoke to Lycoming College professor Valerie Reynolds’ public relations class on the drastic need for funding of cancer screening for area firefighters, something not covered by insurance.

“It really moved me, so I wanted to do something about it,” one student, Taylor Chrisenberry, told the Sun-Gazette. “They selflessly put their lives on the line for us as a community. It’s the least that we can do,” she said.

We are thankful that the volunteers’ most recent event raised just over $2,100, bringing the total fund to just over $20,000. The ultimate goal, organizers say, is for the fund to reach $65,000.

“I’m just incredibly grateful for all the people,” Chrisenberry said. “The Williamsport community came together. It’s not just me. It’s us. It’s a group collaborative effort.”

We appreciate the students’ hard work and collaborative spirit. As we’ve editorialized before, the challenges confronting Pennsylvania’s firefighters and fire companies require all of their neighbors and fellow community members find their own ways to support their critical, life-saving efforts.

Donations and contributing to fire companies’ fundraisers, volunteering time either as a firefighter answering calls or in other capacities and speaking as voters to our state and local public servants to emphasize how important the role they play in making sure fire companies have what they need are still some of the ways we can help. We are grateful the volunteers and organizers of these excellent efforts are doing their part.