Salem Firefighters Union Local 172 Raises More Than $8,000 to Benefit SHS Athletics, Class of 2026
SALEM (Jan. 6, 2025) – The Salem Firefighters Union Local 172 raised more than $8,000 through the sales of apparel during Halloween season to benefit Salem High School athletics and the class of 2026.
During the month of October, members of the Salem Firefighters Union Local 172 worked closely with the SHS athletic department, student-athletes and the class of 2026 officers for 10 days selling t-shirts and other apparel outside its Lafayette Street headquarters.
The Salem Firefighters Local 172 donated $8,250 to the participating teams and the graduating class – each receiving $750 in support. Participating teams included softball, baseball, golf, cross country and wrestling, along with football, boys basketball, boys lacrosse, girls volleyball and boys soccer.
“We are very, very grateful to the Salem Firefighters Union Local 172 for its generous gift,” said SHS Director of Athletics Reilly Christie. “This will significantly benefit each of the teams which participated, as well as the Class of 2026. The partnership between the City’s firefighters, police officers and public servants has always been a strong and special one, as this collaboration emphasizes.”
The fundraising mission was two-fold: SHS scholars also had the opportunity to spend time at the firehouse, allowing them to learn more about the operations in fire service.
“Our department viewed this experience as a valuable way to introduce students to potential future careers and encourage interest in joining the department,” said Wayne Silva, a captain with the SFD, which supports several charities throughout the City. “The Salem Firefighters are proud to continue offering this annual fundraising opportunity to Salem High School students.”
About Salem Public Schools
Salem Public Schools is an urban public school district in Salem, Massachusetts, a small, diverse city with a proud maritime and immigrant history. Our leaders and our teachers are passionate about education and understand the urgency of improving student achievement with equity and social-emotional needs as the lens through which we view our work. We respect and value the racial, cultural, and linguistic diversity of our students and their families, and have a strong commitment to the Salem community. Salem Public Schools staff unconditionally serves each of our 4,000 students across 11 schools regardless of ability or language.
