ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. — Firefighters in St. Lucie County are proving their brotherhood lasts a lifetime, going above their call of duty to help the elderly widow of a former beloved fire chief.
Polly Moore, 91, was married to former St. Lucie County Fire Chief Don Moore.
"Oh, the fire department is just wonderful," Polly said.
Chief Moore dedicated 32 years to the department, also serving the community as a fire marshal and in the U.S. Coast Guard reserve.
"He loved his job. He was very dedicated," Polly said.
Polly was also a "fire bell," volunteering her time to the department.
"When they had fires out in the woods, we’d bring them sandwiches and drinks so they wouldn’t be out there without anything," Polly said.
Polly still lives in their Fort Pierce home they shared for more than 60 years. But for several years, she’s been living under a roof that's in dire need of repair.
"We always pray it’s not going to rain," Polly said, with multiple leaks, including through light fixtures. "It has really been a problem. Leaking in on your bed at night."
Fort Pierce business owner Scott Van Duzer, who owns a Big Apple Pizza, was told about Polly’s situation. Van Duzer brought it to the attention of the St. Lucie County Fire District.
"I only wish we knew sooner," said Public Information Officer Brenda Stokes.
Stokes said they are spreading the word to active and retired firefighters to help raise money to make sure they take care of Polly, showing her and her husband's years of service deserve a favor in return.
"Once they’re part of the fire family, they’re always part of the fire family," Stokes said.
Florida Coastal Roofing Solutions has started the work to get the roof repaired at a lower cost.
"I was flabbergasted. It was just the nicest thing anyone could ever do for us," Polly said. "They like to take care of each other."
Van Duzer is also hosting a fundraiser at his restaurant next week to benefit Polly.
The event is Wednesday, Dec. 16 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Big Apple Pizza and Pasta, located at 2311 S. 35th Street in Fort Pierce.
100% of food and drink proceeds will go toward Polly’s roof repairs.
