News

The Richmond Fire Department received a generous donation of $100,000 from Belden Inc. as part of Belden’s Connect with Community initiative. The donated funds will help the Fire Department to replace and improve its firefighting equipment, including the purchase of two gear washers and upgraded equipment to help firefighters breathe in hazardous conditions. Any remaining funds will be used to add to their inventory of essential firefighting tools such as hoses and hand tools.

Fire Chief Tim Brown, Assistant Fire Chief Joseph Buckler, and Mayor Dave Snow accepted Belden’s donation. Presenting the check from Belden were President and CEO Dr. Ashish Chand, Vice President Marty van der Burgt, and Vice President of Operations Doug Brenneke. Dr. Chand emphasized the importance of the Richmond community to Belden.

“Richmond is an institution in Belden’s story and our history,” said President and CEO Dr. Ashish Chand. “Richmond is a core place for us and is one of our biggest assets. It is someplace we need to protect and continue to grow. Through the heroic skills and hard work of the fire department, the legacy of Richmond was preserved.” 

"We are grateful for Belden’s gift to the RFD,” said Fire Chief Tim Brown. “This donation will allow us to replace the equipment needed to keep our firefighters safe.”

“Belden and their leadership team have a proven history of partnership within this community,” said Mayor Dave Snow. “I want to thank Belden for their continued partnership and their continued dedication to Richmond. I look forward to our relationship continuing to be mutually beneficial in the years ahead.”

“I would like to express my deep appreciation to Belden and the Richmond community as a whole,” said Assistant Fire Chief Joseph Buckler. “The outpouring of support for the department since the fire has been truly humbling.”

Belden Inc., a leader in the design and manufacturing of insulated wire, cable, and other connectivity solutions, first opened its Richmond plant in 1928 and has been an important part of the Richmond community ever since. Belden's Connect with Community initiative gives associates the opportunity to give back to their communities through paid volunteer time and a gift match program with Belden's support. The company's generous donation to the Richmond Fire Department is a testament to its commitment to the community and its people.