Springfield, MO Fire Department

🚒👨🏻‍🚒🤝💰For the second year in a row, Missouri State University’s Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity has selected Springfield Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction program as a beneficiary of its annual fundraiser.

Each year, the Pikes host their annual Fireman's Challenge fundraiser, a vigorous obstacle course that gives participants the chance to experience some of the scenarios that firefighters face in the line of duty. All proceeds from the annual challenge benefit local fire departments.

In 2025, the Pikes donated $3,672.81 to the department. This year, they raised $4,480. Fire Chief David Pennington accepted a check from Alec Kennett, Luke Krapf, Ben Nelson and Ryan Hancock Thursday, April 30.

“The Pikes are pleased to support the Springfield Fire Department through this effort. We are confident these funds will help promote a safer community,” said Kennett.

The donation will be used to provide free smoke alarms and oxygen safety devices to residents who utilize in-home oxygen. These resources are critical in reducing fire risk and protecting vulnerable populations.

In 2025, the department responded to a fatal fire incident involving the use of in-home oxygen in the presence of open flames.

“This donation will have a direct and meaningful impact on the safety of our community,” Pennington said.

Why This Matters:
Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a vital role in helping individuals navigate the healthcare system—especially when facing housing, social, or economic challenges. By increasing awareness of what CHWs and healthcare social workers do, we can ensure people connect to the right services at the right time.

Our Role:
The Ozarks Alliance to End Homelessness (OAEH) Healthcare to Housing Coalition is working to reduce barriers between healthcare and housing. Through this public awareness campaign, we aim to improve understanding of available resources and help individuals access the care they need.

How You Can Help:
Share these posts throughout March to help spread awareness. The more we share, the more we can connect individuals experiencing homelessness to vital healthcare services and strengthen our community’s health.