Providence Canteen seeking sponsors

PROVIDENCE -
They're a familiar sight whenever a big fire breaks out: the Providence Canteen trucks that provide food and water to weary firefighters.

They are housed in a garage along O'Connell Street in Providence, but show up to emergency situations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut.

"On a hot day or the coldest day, the Providence Canteen is here," operations officer Joseph Phillips said.

The canteen was in New York on 9/11, offering food and water to emergency responders who rushed in to help.

But funds are running low. The canteen is looking for a new sponsor to keep its efforts and trucks alive and ready to roll.

"Money is getting short here," Phillips said.

Volunteers said they take money from their own pockets to keep the trucks stocked.

Although the canteen has changed names and hands over the years, the passion and dedication of the volunteers has remained the same.

They respond everywhere from small fires to ones that displace hundreds like the Warwick condo fire in March. The canteen will stay for hours, even days.

"We don't care how long we are there for," Phillips said. "For us, it's gratifying to know we are helping them."

The truck has a stainless steel interior and has the ability to make food and beverages.

To find out more about donations or sponsorship opportunities, call the Providence Canteen 401-737-7732