The Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation's mission is simple yet profound: to save lives. For over 26 years, this organization has been a cornerstone of support for our local heroes in the Hawaii Island Fire Department. Through private fundraising efforts, they've provided critical equipment and training that our local and state governments couldn't otherwise afford on their own, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our first responders.

The foundation has raised over $30 million and gifted the Hawaii Island Fire Department with fire trucks, Jaws of Life, underwater SCUBA gear with communication systems, a multitude of rope rescue systems including training, swift-water gear and training, cold weather gear, rescue boards, long range communication systems, water safety craft and training, Polaris Rangers, ATVs, lifeguard uniforms and jackets, binoculars, AEDs,  helicopter chopper spotters, rescue boats and new EMS helicopters to assist in immediate patient transport to Island hospitals for critical care.

The AirBus H125, named "Ka Io" after the Hawaiian hawk, is equipped to respond to EMS calls across the island, as well as perform firefighting and rescue operations. EMS response to remote areas of the island are one of the challenges our HFD personnel face. Having an aero-medical helicopter to gain access and transport medical patients is a crucial part of our EMS services on the Big Island.

All the proceeds from Market Day are donated to the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation and benefit the Hawaii Island Fire Department.

To learn more about this wonderful organization, visit www.danielsayrefoundation.org.