Queens, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato recently passed 2 State-wide resolutions to officially solidify May 4 as ‘Volunteer Firefighter Appreciation Day’ and the week of May 19-25 as ‘Emergency Medical Service Worker Week’ in the State of New York. State resolutions are considered an extremely coveted and honored legislative declaration that preserves a specific time in State history. Pheffer Amato, who serves as the Chairwoman of the NYS Assembly Committee on Governmental Employees which is the leading legislative authority on all public employees in New York, referred to these resolutions as a way of showing our “unwavering gratitude to all first responders and emergency workers and the incredible work they do.”

Within the 23rd Assembly District, which spans from Ozone Park to Howard Beach, through Broad Channel and across the Rockaway Peninsula, are 5 Volunteer Fire Departments (VFD). “I believe in our Vollies. They represent the best of a community as they volunteer and selflessly give themselves to help others. This resolution shows that in New York we recognize their volunteerism, their service, and we honor them,” said the Assemblywoman. Her ongoing work has resulted in over $2 million being allocated to the VFD’s in the community during her tenure.

“This day ensures that those who commit to being volunteer firefighters are honored and respected. The members of the Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department, and all volunteer fire firefighters, are always ready to help anytime and anywhere. We thank Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato for not only being a strong ally, but for helping to declare this day throughout New York,” said Chief Richard Colleran of the Roxbruy Volunteer Fire Department.

“Volunteerism is the backbone of our society. The men and women who give up their time to help others are committed to their neighbors, and their entire community. The recognition of volunteer firefighters through this day is greatly appreciated - we appreciate Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato for making sure the State says thank you,” said Dan McIntyre, President of the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department & Ambulance Corp.

Pheffer Amato went on to pass a resolution to declare May 19-25 as “National EMS Worker Week” throughout the State of New York. Local 2057, the union that represents NYC EMS workers thanked Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato for her steadfast and ongoing commitment to their work. “Thank you to Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato for your consistent support to the men and women of FDNY EMS. Your work is not unnoticed. EMTs are our city's heroes and their amazing dedication to the job is the culmination of selflessness and genuine love for this city and its people,” said President Oren Barzilay.  

“Through the course of their duties, these heroic men and women come to our aid in our most vulnerable hour. When we need help, they show up no matter what - they are lifesavers. These heroes, both volunteer and career, deserve to know that their State not only thanks them as they exemplify the best of our State and an unwavering commitment to their community,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato.