Windham and Hensonville fire departments get $60K donation
Published on:
April 24, 2026
The three-year investment, split equally between Windham and Hensonville, will support modernization of equipment. Photo contributed.
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WINDHAM―Windham Mountain Club and the Windham Foundation of New York announced on Friday a three-year $60,000 commitment to the Windham and Hensonville Hose Companies.
Both the year-round resort and non-profit organization will each contribute $10,000 annually to the two fire departments for three years to fund critical equipment upgrades.
For Windham Mountain Club, the commitment reflects the institution's belief that “a great mountain community requires investment beyond its gates.”
"Windham Mountain Club exists because of this place—its landscape, its people, and the infrastructure that makes it extraordinary," said Kristen Leach, president of Windham Mountain Club.
"Supporting the volunteers who protect this community is not a gesture. It is a responsibility we take seriously, and we are proud to make this commitment alongside the Windham Foundation,” Leach added.
The Windham Foundation of New York has long championed local wellness through initiatives including support for the Windham Food Pantry and a land donation for new youth softball fields.
“The Windham Foundation is proud to support our volunteer community heroes with necessary equipment to support their life saving work”, said Paul Mutter, president of the Windham Foundation.
Leaders from the hose companies expressed deep gratitude for the support.
Windham Fire Chief Jordan Braren thanked both Windham Mountain Club and the Windham Foundation for “their generosity in support of our efforts to update and expand our equipment and resources to better serve the residents and visitors of the Town of Windham.”
"They saw the opportunity to reinvest in and support the community that we share, we're grateful for that,” Braren said.
Hensonville Fire Chief Tyrel Sherman noted that while volunteer departments run on dedication, “dedication alone cannot replace aging equipment or keep our people safe.”
"This kind of support changes what we are able to do and how well we are able to protect the people who live and work here. When organizations like Windham Mountain Club and Windham Foundation invest in us, they are investing in every family on this mountaintop,” Sherman said.
Windham Town Supervisor Thomas Hoyt added that, "With the constant increase in equipment costs the three-year commitment will allow the companies to plan for the future―which will have a direct impact for the safety of our community."
