In 1994, brothers Chris and Robin Sorensen opened the doors of the first Firehouse Subs restaurant in their hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. Nearly 22 years later, the fast-casual chain known for its hot subs and hearty portions celebrates the opening of the 1,000th restaurant.
To commemorate the milestone and continue the brand’s commitment to heartfelt service and public safety, the founders of Firehouse Subs donated $1 million to support the 1,000 Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Gift Campaign through the brand’s non-profit, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation®. These AEDs were awarded to police agencies in communities served by Firehouse Subs restaurants across the country. Studies from the American Heart Association show the use of an AED within three to five minutes of a victim’s heart-stopping improves odds of survival by nearly 70 percent.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was fortunate to be a recipient of one of the AEDs. Captain Terry Black, Commander of the Patrol Division, received the AED from Darin Atlas, Owner/Operator, Firehouse Subs in California, Maryland. Captain Black advised the AED would be issued to a patrol deputy immediately for use in the field. Captain Black further stated “this is another fine example of businesses and communities working together with law enforcement to make St. Mary’s County a safe and enjoyable place to live. The Sheriff’s Office is very appreciative of Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation and to Mr. Atlas for nominating the Sheriff’s Office for this donation.”
In 2015, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation awarded more than 230 AEDs to public safety entities nationwide, including law enforcement agencies, first responder groups and schools. Since 2005, the Foundation has donated more than $20 million in funding, life-saving equipment and educational opportunities to public safety organizations in 46 states, Puerto Rico and Canada.