February 18, 2013 was a difficult day for the Lancaster Bureau of Fire.
A raging fire on the 200 block of East Madison Street killed two people and injured three firefighters, including Lt. Andre Kelley, who was burned on more than 40 percent of his body.
As Lt. Kelley recovers at Crozer-Chester Medical Center just outside of Philadelphia, someone is trying to make a quick buck off of his heroism.
Several people have reported receiving phone calls about a couples dance to benefit the three firefighters.
They say the person demanded credit card numbers for payment, something Lt. Kelley’s uncle Dennis Perry said city firefighters would never do.
“You have to have to a serious character flaw to try and take advantage of people’s kindness during this tragic time,” said Perry, who is also a Lancaster firefighter.
Over at Clipper Magazine Stadium, The Lancaster Barnstormers have several legitimate fundraisers planned for their April 18th home opener to support and Lt. Kelley and his family.
“We’re going to take a portion of every ticket sold under the Lt. Andre Kelley link on the website and direct it to the family,” said Tony DeMarco, a Barnstormers’ Vice president.
There will be t-shirt sales and firefighters will pass around boots to collect donations.
Lt. Kelley’s two children will throw out the first pitch as well.
Perry said Lt. Kelley could be home in as early as several weeks.
He has a message for everyone who’s been there for his nephew, the fire department and his family.
“Just want to thank the community for being there to support us during this tragic time,” Perry said. “We definitely value the love and affection that they’ve showered upon us, both monetarily and just with their deeds.”
To buy tickets for the Barnstormers’ home opener to benefit Lt. Andre Kelley, click here.
Lancaster firefighters union IAFF Local 319 is also sponsoring two other upcoming fundraisers:
A concert featuring John Michael Montgomery is scheduled for April 28th at the Lancaster Convention Center.
You can buy tickets here or at any Family Owned Market.
A magic show is planned for May 18 at Lancaster Mennonite High School.