Future Firefighters Get a Boost in Ponchatoula

Air Products has pledged $18,000 to the Ponchatoula Volunteer Fire Department’s High School Program, enabling ten students to launch careers in emergency services during the 2025‑2026 school year.

• Source: Air Products Lake Maurepas Community Fund, the company’s local charity arm.
• Program: Louisiana’s High School Firefighter Training Program, offering certifications from the International Fire Services Accreditation Congress and ProBoard in hazmat awareness, hazmat operations, and fire suppression.

“We love helping young people jump‑start their training in firefighting,” said Air Products’ commercial director.

Fire Chief Stormy Joiner expressed gratitude, noting that the department has previously benefited from a $575,000 grant for water vessels and firehouse upgrades.

Air Products also supports other community initiatives:

• Stocking Lake Maurepas with fish
• Free university research station trips for schools
• Purchasing a boat for Livingston Parish Fire Protection District 2
• Cleaning litter in Manchac