Charlotte Fire Sizzles as the Fire Dept. Coffee September Spotlight

Published on September 01, 2024

Charlotte firefighter poses in front of a fire engine holding a back of the department's new signature coffee.

Charlotte Firefighter Talor McClusky at Firehouse 6 is ready for some Fire Dept. Coffee.

By Kevin Campbell

This September, Fire Dept. Coffee is turning up the heat with Charlotte Fire as the latest feature in their Fire Dept. Club. As the leaves start to change and the air begins to cool, coffee enthusiasts and community supporters alike will have the perfect excuse to brew up something special — and give back to the brave firefighters who keep us safe.

Fire Dept. Coffee, a veteran-owned company hailing from Rockford, Illinois, has a mission as bold as their brew. Founded in 2016 by retired firefighter/paramedic and U.S. Navy veteran Luke Schneider, the company is dedicated to providing top-tier coffee while supporting sick and injured firefighters through their charitable foundation. This mission is brewed into every bag, with a portion of proceeds going directly to those who need it most.

Five Charlotte firefighters gather at a table with bags of their Fire Dept. Coffee. They are all smiling and wearing shirts with the coffee's logo.

Firehouse 8 Crew (right to left): Engineer Michael Colson, Firefighter II Maurice Tuttle, Firefighter I Connor Runde, and Capt. Rod Wallace.

This September, Charlotte’s finest are stepping into the spotlight. The bustling city, affectionately known as the "Hornet’s Nest," buzzed with excitement as Fire Dept. Coffee’s creative team, led by Chief Creative Officer Brad Flaherty, descended on the Queen City. Amid the hum of engines and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, Charlotte Fire suited up for a day of photo shoots, promotional videos, and, of course, a lot of coffee talk.

Why Charlotte? Flaherty sums it up with a smile: “Charlotte is a great town full of people who are always buzzing with energy. We wanted to give back to a community that has given so much. Plus, there’s a real need here — whether it's mental health awareness, supporting firefighters battling cancer, or helping those injured on the job. This is about more than just coffee; it’s about coming together over a cup and making a difference.”

Seven Charlotte firefighters pose with their signature coffee in from of a fire engine.

The crew at Firehouse 4.

The September launch will feature exclusive Charlotte Fire-themed merchandise, including T-shirts emblazoned with the city’s iconic Hornet motif. Plus, for every shirt sold, five dollars goes back to supporting local firefighters, while two dollars from each coffee bag purchased will fuel further charitable efforts. The goal? To brew up a blend of community spirit that’s as strong as the coffee itself.

As Flaherty explains, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a vehicle for connection. “Whether it’s good conversations or difficult ones, they usually happen over a cup of coffee. And what better way to support our fellow firefighters than by coming together, sharing a cup, and giving back?”

Four Charlotte firefighters sit together at a table and smile at each other. There are several bags of their coffee around, and all of the firefighters have a cup of their own.

The crew at Firehouse 6.

The photo shoot wasn’t just about capturing the perfect shot; it was about authenticity. “We’re not just saying we’re firefighters or run by firefighters,” Flaherty emphasizes. “We actually work with real firefighters — the real community heroes who are out there doing the job day in and day out. That’s who people want to see.”

So, as you pour yourself a cup of Fire Dept. Coffee this September, know that you’re not just enjoying a smooth, balanced brew; you’re fueling a mission. With every sip, you’re supporting Charlotte’s bravest and helping to ensure they have the resources they need to stay strong, healthy, and ready to answer the call.

A group of Charlotte firefighters stand around the firehouse smiling with a bag of coffee between them.

The crew at Firehouse 4 hopes you help support Charlotte Fire during the Fire Dept. Coffee fundraising event.

This September let’s raise our mugs to Charlotte Fire and to the power of a good cup of coffee to bring communities together. After all, there’s nothing quite like a fresh brew to ignite a spark and keep the flame of community service burning bright.

So, what are you waiting for? Fuel up with a purpose. Visit our Fire Dept. Coffee collection, grab your Charlotte Fire gear, and be a part of something bigger. Every purchase makes a difference — let’s brew up some good together!