Fork Fundraiser Raises $3,000 for Arizona Firefighters’ Families

The community came together to give money to families of the recently fallen Prescott, Arizona firefighters last week and about $3,000 was raised in all next to the giant Fork in the Road at 200 Bellefontaine Street in Pasadena.

“We had lots people and fireman show up from all over the Los Angeles area with dollar bills, spare change and checks,” Fork Foundation founder and event organizer Phil Coombes told Patch via email.

See photos of Coombes and volunteers at the Fork donation drive here.

The giant Fork in the Road began as a prank pulled by Altadena artist Ken Marshall in honor of Altadena Coffee Gallery owner and Pasadena's Ice House founder Bob Stane. It has since become a symbol for giving as annual Put the Fork in Hunger food and toy drives are located at the giant tined utensil.

"My goal was $100,000 but I dream big!" said Coombes. "Lots of people still want to donate and didn't get a chance to come by."

Those who still want to donate to the fallen firefighters’ families can mail or drop off a check by Monday, July 29 to Podley Properties C/O Phil Coombes 897 Granite Dr., Pasadena, 91101. Checks should be made payable to Yarnell Hill Firefighters Fund. Please do not give cash.

People local to the Pasadena area can even call Coombes at 626-644-3227 and he will pick up the donation.

Did you donate to this cause? What do you think of this fundraising effort? Share in the comments.