Volunteer Fire Companies feeling Financial impact from COVID-19 Pandemic

NAZARETH, PA | Volunteer fire companies are struggling to raise money during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nazareth’s Vigilance Hose Co. 1 responds to nearly 300 emergency calls per year and every piece of equipment, like jacks and struts, plays a role. They may not have the same “wow factor” as a firetruck, but they’re no less important.

“This is probably more important because it keeps the victims and firefighters safe,” Chief Jerry Johnson said, looking at a table lined with the tools.

For volunteer fire companies like his, Johnson says fundraisers are the fuel to buy equipment, hold training seminars, and do recruitment. But the coronavirus canceled major fundraisers this year like carnivals and bake offs. Read More…