The Lehigh Acres Fire and Rescue District presented appreciation plaques to Little Caesar’s and Papa John’s on Wednesday to express appreciation for their continued support of District personnel. Both businesses have consistently supported Lehigh Acres resident Noel Matos in his annual efforts to recognize fire personnel working on 9/11. Every year, Matos collects the pizzas and distributes them to Lehigh Acres fire stations. Firefighters from the District autographed out-of-service helmets for the pizzerias, after which Mr. Matos designed and purchased appreciation plaques for their display.

 Noel Matos remembers being a lifelong fan of fire departments. “When my older brother and I were very young, I remember him winning a drawing contest that involved a fire truck,” states Mr. Matos. “Later in my life, I was in a very serious vehicle crash, and the firefighters saved my life.” After recovering from his crash, Matos visited his local fire station every year on Christmas to drop off food for the firefighters. After the tragedy of 9/11, he changed the date he showed his appreciation. He continued this tradition after moving to Lehigh Acres in 2014, beginning with Publix subs, switching to pizza in 2018. When the managers of Little Caesar’s and Papa John’s heard what he was doing, they graciously began donating the pies.

 “The food that Mr. Matos brings to our stations on 9/11 brightens an otherwise somber day, serving as a reminder to our staff that their community appreciates their hard work and honorable service,” stated Chief Robert DiLallo. “We are also grateful to have so many businesses here in Lehigh that we consider community partners.”