The Turlock Firefighters Local 2434 raised more than $17,000 for Emanuel’s Cancer Center in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness.

The firefighters’ union raised the funds over the month of October by selling an estimated 2,150 original-designed pink Turlock Fire Department T-shirts.

“The fundraising went really well and we are really happy with the results,” said Turlock Fire Capt. Frank Saldivar. “Initially I was hoping to raise around $3,000, so getting to $17,000 was fantastic. We had great support from our community.”

In addition to the T-shirt sales, the firefighters’ union accepted donations from other organizations and businesses and hosted a fundraising night at Chili’s restaurant in Turlock.

The funds were officially donated to Emanuel’s Cancer Center at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

Jana Rhine, Emanuel's director of annual giving exclaimed, "Oh my gosh," when the $17,000 figure was announced.

“This was one of the most inspirational, motivational, fun campaigns we have ever worked on. These gentlemen are true gentlemen, and they worked their fannies off, they really did,” Rhine said.

"Thank you for making it a great month and for supporting our efforts."

The campaign was so successful that the firefighters’ union is already thinking ahead to next October on how to build on the success, Saldivar said.