Brighton FD program lets college kids live rent-free while they volunteer

The Brighton Fire Department offers a unique “bunker program” that allows college students to live rent-free at the firehouse in exchange for volunteering 24 hours a week. Simon Gorby, a mechatronics engineering technology student at RIT, is one of the participants this year. Originally from Saratoga County, Gorby has been volunteering as a firefighter for four years due to the critical shortage of volunteers in his area. The bunker program, which started in 2006, aims to increase volunteer participation by providing housing benefits to eligible students who are over 18, enrolled full-time in college, and active interior firefighters. Deputy Chief Ted Aroesty, who has been involved with the program since its inception, notes that participants experience significant personal growth during their time in the program. While Gorby appreciates the financial benefit, his primary motivation is to continue volunteering and is unsure if he will pursue firefighting as a career.

Source: Rochester First