The Hauppauge Fire Department and the Hauppauge School District are proud to announce the winners of the Hydrant Heroes Challenge, held in the aftermath of the recent Blizzard of ’26.
Following the storm, 35 students from across the district answered the call to serve, clearing snow from a total of 40 fire hydrants throughout the community. Their efforts not only demonstrated outstanding school spirit, but also helped ensure that emergency responders could access hydrants quickly and safely if needed.
First Place Winner:
Grant Carruthers, Hauppauge Middle School, earned first place and will receive a $50 gift certificate to Branchinelli’s Restaurant. Grant will be presented with his award at an upcoming ceremony with Principal Christine O’Connor.
Runners-Up:
Joseph Germade – Bretton Woods Elementary
Gabriella Fontana – Pines Elementary
Haylee & Savannah Bathke – Forest Brook Elementary
Each runner-up will receive a memorable Ride to School on a Fire Truck. Students will be picked up at home and, accompanied by their parents, transported to school aboard the department’s ladder truck — a well-deserved reward for their community-minded efforts.
Celebrating All Participants
In recognition of the dedication shown by all 35 entrants, the Hauppauge Fire District and the Hauppauge School District will host a celebratory lunch on Sunday, March 8, at Hauppauge Fire Headquarters, to honor the students and their families for their service.
The Hauppauge Fire Department and the Hauppauge School District are proud to have teamed up for this amazing community service event. The children learned the importance of community service while providing a valuable service to the community by clearing fire hydrants of snow.
We thank everyone who participated in this fun event!