The local fire department is hosting the Tunnel to Towers 5K to benefit first responder families

BUFFALO, NY (WIVB) – Next weekend, hundreds of people will take to the streets of Cheektowaga for the annual Tunnel to Towers 5K to honor fallen military and first responders. This year, the race will also spotlight the life and legacy of fallen Buffalo firefighter Jason Arno, who died in a fire in March.

The 5K run and walk will be hosted locally by the Bellevue Fire Department in Cheektowaga on September 16th. The event draws hundreds of first responders, friends, families and neighbors to honor the victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks. Proceeds benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s mission to provide mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families. The event includes a post-race fundraiser at The Blackthorn beginning at 11 a.m

Buffalo native Lisa Amatura, a local Tunnel to Towers team member who was rescued from the 70th floor of the first tower to collapse at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, calls herself Tunnel to Towers and provides services to veterans and First responders and their families across the country, an “incredible foundation.”

“It’s incredible for me to be able to participate here and learn about the organization’s connections in New York City.

Amatura joined News 4 at 4 with Dave Greber and Jordan Norkus to preview next weekend’s event. You can watch the full interview in the video player above.

To participate in Bellevue Fire Company’s Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk, click here Here.