CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A tailgate event at Gies Memorial Stadium evolved into a fundraising effort on Saturday, following the stabbing of three first responders over a week prior.

Illinois superfan Robert Rosenthal bought “Engine 77” — a fire engine converted for football games — last year. 

Rosenthal said it only felt right to give back and pay for more than 50 firefighters and their family members to go to Saturday’s game.

When two firefighters and a paramedic were attacked last week, Rosenthal said he wanted to do something to help.

“We reached out to the Champaign Firefighters Benevolent Fund to see if we could organize a fundraiser,” Rosenthal explained. “That’s why we’ve placed these boots out for donations. Additionally, contributions can be made online through the Champaign Firefighter Benevolent Fund’s website.”

All three of the injured first responders have since been released from the hospital.