This year has been rough in many ways, especially for non-profit organizations such as volunteer fire departments. The Era talked to several local volunteer fire department chiefs to see just how the pandemic has affected them.
According to Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Dan Burkhouse, there hasn’t been a decline in membership, though the pandemic most certainly has not made it any easier to find new volunteers.
“I don’t think we’ve really lost any in the past nine months, but as far as membership goes we haven’t been doing well getting new members,” he explained. “All volunteer organizations are suffering for help. Volunteer fire departments have been in decline now for several years and it’s not getting any better.”
Derrick City Chief James Kelley and Lewis Run Chief Don Mason said they’ve seen the same membership trend as Burkhouse within their departments.
As for fundraising, Burkhouse said the Bradford Township VFD has taken a pretty significant hit, with ticket sales down and the inability to hold in-person fundraising events, such as the annual comedy night and golf tournament.
“Any fundraising has been off by a fair amount because nobody can get together and do anything,” he said.
Kelly said that 90% of the Derrick City VFD’s income comes from department fundraising, which includes the monthly bingo that’s been shut down since March. The department relies on donations within the community for the other ten percent.
“Being that we are 100% volunteer, we are not provided any other income or tax money and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to come up with fresh new ideas to raise money,” said Kelley, adding that “many members spend countless hours working fundraisers, running calls, doing training, apparatus and hall maintenance, outside of their family and work commitments.”
While Derrick City was fortunately able to hold a chicken BBQ and virtual 5k this year, the loss that they have taken still amounts to several thousands of dollars. They were able to get some relief from the Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioners state grant funding, though were denied two federal grants to replace equipment.
Mason added that the Lewis Run VFD has been planning fundraising events, such as the farmer’s market, week by week, as nobody can predict when new restrictions may be imposed.
The good news is there are several ways that the average citizen can help their local volunteer fire departments.
“We urge all residents, even through the tough times, to donate to their local fire department, as these funds assist with newer equipment, apparatus and building maintenance, so we can respond promptly with trained personnel with the necessary tools and equipment to take care of their emergency when called upon,” said Kelley.
Additionally, Burkhouse said those interested in helping with fundraising can visit the Bradford Township Volunteer Facebook page and send them a message to purchase raffle tickets for the Dec. 6 raffle.
Aside from fundraising, the departments always welcome new volunteers.
“We can train anybody if they have the physical ability,” said Burkhouse. “We can send people to training to become an emergency responder.”
Kelley added that for those interested in joining, there “is a job for everyone.”
He went on to note how the department has been very diligent and are doing a good job of following all COVID-19 guidelines both during an emergency, as well as when they are at the station holding meetings and training.
“We make sure equipment is cleaned and sanitized after use, everyone wears masks and we practice social distancing,” he said.
Mason said that those interested in volunteering can send a message to the Lewis Run Facebook page, stop in and talk to one of the members or contact the borough, which will put them in contact with him.
