Florida and New York Business Steps Up to Support Wildfire Firefighters!
The Jennings Creek Wildfire raged through thousands of acres in Orange County, New York, near the border of New York and New Jersey. The massive fire drew hundreds of firefighters and first responders who worked tirelessly alongside local departments to contain it.
Luckily, the region received much-needed rain and even some snow after a long dry spell, helping efforts to bring the fire under control.
As of the latest update, the wildfire is 90% contained. However, a burn ban remains in effect across New York State until November 30, 2024. With the danger subsiding, firefighters and first responders can finally return to their everyday lives.
In a heartwarming turn of events, one Hudson Valley business owner found a unique way to thank a firefighter who had risked his life during the wildfire.
Robbie Jacobs, the owner of Back in the Game Sports Consignment in Florida, New York, has been running his shop for over three years after leaving the corporate world.
Jacobs has a personal connection to the fire’s devastation—both his homes in the Greenwood Lake and Sterling Forest areas were dangerously close to the wildfire. In Sterling Forest, flames came within 100 yards of his daughter’s house.
Thanks to the swift actions of the firefighters, the family was able to shelter in place without significant damage.
This close call inspired Jacobs to go above and beyond when he encountered a firefighter in his store.
The firefighter, who had been helping fight the Jennings Creek Wildfire, visited Back in the Game to purchase hockey equipment for his daughter.
Despite being visibly exhausted from days of battling the blaze, the firefighter took time to shop for his family.
Jacobs later shared the moment on Facebook, posting a selfie with the firefighter and recounting how the encounter moved him.
When the firefighter came to the checkout counter, Jacobs decided to cover the cost of the equipment. “The hockey gear is on me. It’s the least I can do for your family,” Jacobs said, calling it an easy decision.
In his post, Jacobs praised the firefighter’s selflessness and hard work, writing:
“These are the kind of people who give and give, and then when I tell them the gear is free, they don’t want me to give it to them. Tears have been shed today, but they were good tears. Thank you for your service. Thank you for being a hero.”
This act of generosity is not out of character for Jacobs or his store. Since opening Back in the Game Sports Consignment, Jacobs has made giving back to the community a priority. He originally left the corporate world because he felt it was “a little entitled” and decided to focus on helping others.
Since then, his shop has given away more than 12,000 bikes, many of which were refurbished donations. On average, Jacobs gives away about 20 bikes daily to people in need.
Running the shop has allowed Jacobs to support his community and improve his own health. Before opening the store, Jacobs had high blood pressure.
Now, he feels healthier and enjoys creating a space that radiates positivity. Many customers visit the shop simply to “catch a vibe,” even if they don’t purchase anything.
Back in the Game Sports Consignment is located at 16 S Main Street, Florida, New York, and is open from Tuesday through Sunday.
The shop welcomes bike donations, which are cleaned and repaired before being given to those in need. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about their efforts.
Robbie Jacobs’ story reminds us of the power of gratitude and community, proving that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.