UTICA, N.Y. -- A local event is honoring volunteer firefighters and families battling cancer and life-threatening illnesses, but also children in need.

The third annual Utica College 'Believe Bowl' football game will be held Saturday, Oct. 12.

This game pays respect to those brave firefighters and families, but also raises funds for them and their families through the Believe 271 Foundation.

A luncheon was held Monday at the Carbone Auditorium at Utica College to promote the game.

President Laura Casamento presented jerseys to chosen honorary captains who are fighting these illnesses.

"The Believe Bowl brings together Believe 271 Foundation, which is a tremendous foundation, and our community that supports our families that are fighting cancer. Also, a lot of education for our firefighters and first responders. And it also supports the children of the Thea Bowman House. And then the last couple years we've opened it up if we have any children in the area that are fighting cancer. We also want to recognize them and just have awareness. And it's a lot of fun," says Blaise Faggiano, the head coach of the Utica College football team.

The Believe Bowl will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. in Utica College's Gaetano Stadium.

The game will open with the Honor Guard from the Oneida County's Sheriff's Department and the national anthem sung by NYS Trooper Dave Olney.

For more information, or to donate, visit the Believe 271 Foundation's website.