Welland in the News
New Welland sub shop passionate about serving community
November 16, 2021
New Welland sub shop passionate about serving community
Owner of the Welland Firehouse Subs, Purvang Patel, stands in front of the location’s mural, which features a City of Welland fire truck. SARAH FERGUSON/METROLAND
Serving a sandwich could potentially help save lives.
That’s what restaurateur Purvang Patel says he loves about owning and operating the new Firehouse Subs, which opened late last month at 905 Niagara St. in Welland.
Donations are collected through recycled pickle bucket sales and customers can round up their change, which goes to the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, to be used to provide lifesaving equipment to first responders.
“First responders file a grant application (to the foundation) for safety equipment or to help with training,” said Vishal Patel, who co-owns the business with his cousin.
To date, the foundation has granted more than $1.7 million across Ontario.
The foundation has awarded several grants in Niagara including the Wainfleet Fire and Emergency Service, which received about $40,000 two years ago.
The Grimsby Auxiliary Marine Rescue Unit South Shore Search and Rescue has received two grants in previous years, including one in 2018 for $27,000.
The Welland restaurant is the third franchise opened by brothers Purvang Patel and Pete Patel and cousin Vishal Patel.
The first location opened on Lundy’s Lane in Niagara Falls in 2016, and the second one opened last June on Fourth Avenue in St. Catharines.
They also operate a fourth location in Stoney Creek (Winona).
Vishal said his family decided to bring Firehouse to Niagara because it brings something different and unique to the area.
Their sandwiches feature meats and cheese that are steamed and piled high on a toasted sub roll filled with fresh produce and condiments.
“What makes our subs so special is the steam adds moisture to the sub, and then the bun is toasted,” said Vishal, adding that it allows the sub to stay hot longer, and the moisture ensures the sub isn’t dry.