WILKES-BARRE, Pa., May 03, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cold temperatures and rain didn’t dampen the spirits of volunteers in northeastern Pennsylvania. The community united to demonstrate its support for the Hanover Township Fire Department at the fourth annual Ladders and Laces 5k. The annual race coupled with Team Navient contributions raised $17,000 to help the local fire department’s efforts in keeping their firefighters and community members safe.
“We can’t express our deepest appreciation to Navient for their thoughtfulness and support to our department,” said Joseph Temerantz, department chief, Hanover Township Fire Department. “Without their support we would not be able to provide the level of service that we currently do to those who live, work and travel through our fire protection district. Last year, we responded to 941 calls for service and we can truly say we delivered a high level of service to those in need because of Navient’s support.”
This year’s donations will help purchase new safety equipment and technology including two water rescue boats, several sets of fire gear and a smaller and more versatile jaws of life tool. In addition, funds will also help purchase a “fire pup” costume to support fire prevention awareness among children. The fire department provides activities for more than 400 children each year.
Despite the unfavorable weather, the 3.1 mile race attracted about 140 runners and many supporters and volunteers. This year, the event offered a race registration fee discount to students.
“We’re grateful for the Hanover Township Fire Department efforts in keeping our community safe,” said Lisa Stashik, vice president, Navient. “The Ladders and Laces 5k is our way of showing our gratitude.”
In addition to the race, employees raised funds to support the fire department through Navient's popular Jeans BeCause program. The program allows participating employees a "pass" to dress casually on certain days.
Since 2016, the annual race coupled with employee contributions has raised $68,000. Funds have aided the construction of a firehouse, the purchase of a state-of-the-art fire engine and life-saving equipment.
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About Navient
Navient (Nasdaq: NAVI) is a leader in education loan management and business processing solutions for education, healthcare and government clients at the federal, state and local levels. The company helps its clients and millions of Americans achieve financial success through services and support. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, Navient also employs team members in western New York, northeastern Pennsylvania, Indiana, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin and other locations. Learn more at navient.com.
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Media: Brianna Huff, 302-283-2973, brianna.huff@navient.com
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