Steak-umm Company congratulates the Philadelphia winners of the “Steak-umm® Firehouse 2nd Chance Challenge.” Three Philadelphia area firefighters who entered the Steak-umm Firehouse Challenge 2014, had a “2nd Chance” to win for their local firehouse through a 24 hour fundraising competition, which took place over the weekend of May 28-29, 2015 in Philadelphia. The contestants were tasked with using their creativity, community connections and cooking skills to develop a unique fundraising effort that included 100% beef Steak-umm® Sliced Steaks. The three competitors raised more than $17,500 in 24 hours that will directly support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Pat Mullen, of This Old House Ladder 16 took the top prize of $5,000 for his firehouse after holding four fundraisers over a 24 hour period, including a car wash, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, sales of his “Steak-umm Balls of Fire” (made from his winning Steak-umm recipe) and a Beef & Beer gathering at the Local 22 Fireman’s Union Hall in Philadelphia. Mullen’s efforts raised more than $8,800 for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Firefighter Bill Joerger, of Engine 49, won $3,000 for his firehouse after holding a two day T-Shirt sale at Xfinity Live, a Steak-umm Chili Dog Chow Down and a donation drive that raised more than $6,200.

Strathmere Volunteer Fire & Rescue firefighter Ed Scanlon raised more than $2,450 during his Steak-umm Sandwich sale, and won $2,000 for his firehouse.

The 2014 Steak-umm Firehouse Challenge finalists, Craig Weinbaum from Fort Meyers, Florida Alex Callegari, from Miami, Florida and Andrew Dresher of Hummelstown, Pa were on hand to serve as mentors and helpers for the contestants.

“We are overwhelmed by the creativity and support from these three fire stations in the Philadelphia area and the generosity from their communities. On behalf of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, we thank Steak-Umm for arranging the challenge, the contestants and the community,” said Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki.

“We are amazed at the effort that was put forth by the Philadelphia area contestants. They each put their heart and soul into the competition and raised an extraordinary amount of money in a 24 hour period for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.” says Nancy Deale, executive vice president. “We are excited for the next Steak-umm Firehouse 2nd Chance Challenge in New York City on June 26-27th.”

Stay tuned to the Steak-umm® Facebook page for updates and campaign announcements.