About Center Moriches Fire Department
The Center Moriches Fire Department was nominated by Lauren Coffey of Our Infinite Company. The department is staffed by roughly 70 volunteers and responds to about 2,200 calls for assistance annually. Center Moriches is a coastal town, and the department's staff are also trained to conduct water rescues.
On March 8th, 2024, the department responded to a brush fire in Center Moriches that escalated into multiple towns. After they got Center Moriches contained, the department supported several other Fire Departments in a wild brush fire that was close to becoming a repeat of the fires of August 1995. They always support other departments and community events in the town.
The department supports various causes in the community, including Camp Pa Qua Tuck (a sleep-away camp for children with physical and mental disabilities) and fire prevention in schools. After the tragic death of a community member, Thomas Valva, the department pulled together and hosted a fundraiser at their firehouse, raising more than $20,000 for Thomas' family.
They also personified what inclusion should be through their work with Keith Caputo, another community member with his own charity, Helping Makes U Happy. This organization coordinates scholarships and volunteer opportunities throughout the year to help others. The department made Keith an honorary firefighter for all his support of the fire department and the community.
They bring joy to the community every year at the holidays by putting on the Parade of Lights and the Santa Run up and down the streets of Center Moriches, all on their own time.
