TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — There is an ongoing effort to support the Indiana families left behind when a loved one who is serving the public dies.
The Indiana Fallen Heroes Foundation’s mission is to aid these families, and one way is through scholarships.
Jaidyn Schoffstall received a scholarship from the Indiana Fallen Heroes Foundation. Many firefighters came out to celebrate these men and women from the same fire department her father served, Terre Haute’s Station 5.
Her mother, brother, and grandparents watched her receive the scholarship with joy. Schoffstall said this is a great honor and plans to use it for her college expenses at Indiana State University. Schoffstall also shares that she will study elementary education.
“The drive for the kids definitely came from my dad. My dad was a very much like for the kids, for the community. He was definitely something that I looked up to, not only because he was a firefighter, he was a hero, but he’s more of a hero to me because he is my dad,” said Schoffstall.
To be a scholarship recipient, the person is nominated. According to Jerry Wible, a foundation staff member, Schoffstall is a hardworking person, and the group is glad they can help.
“It’s a great organization. You know, look it up, contribute to it. This is a young lady who lost her father way too soon, and obviously they were very close, so any support that we can offer is appreciated,” said Wible.
Members of the fire department said they watched Schoffstall grow up over the years because her dad often brought her to the station.
“John is not forgotten. Will never be forgotten on the Terre Haute Fire Department and for his sacrifice. To see others honor his daughter with a scholarship brings a lot of emotions to the fire department here today, but we’re proud of her and we’re happy for her,” said Terre Haute Fire Chief Darrick Scott.
A department of firefighters, including off-duty firefighters, friends, and family. All here to celebrate and support Jaidyn Schoffstall on this new chapter of her life.
To learn more about the Indiana Fallen Heroes Foundation, visit Indiana Fallen Heroes Foundation, Inc.
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