May 10, 2007 1 min read

Hopwood Volunteer Fire Department’s annual fund drive is under way. Donation envelopes have been mailed to all residents in the service area. Anyone not receiving an envelope may mail their donations to the Hopwood Fire Department, Box 85, Hopwood, Pa. 15445.

The fire department recently put into service its new $453,000 rescue truck.

Besides maintaining a fleet of trucks and equipment, the fire department also maintains the building as well as paying for fuel, utilities, damaged clothing, and educational trainings.

“The fire department operates entirely on donations and fund-raisers held throughout the year,’ a fire department spokesman said.

“Many communities don’t have to rely on volunteers, they have paid firefighters who are supported by taxes,’ he said. “But, we are different. We are local homeowners and residents, and we care enough about the lives and property of our neighbors to invest many hours of time in education and preparation to come to their aid when fires or other emergencies arise.’

All firefighters are volunteers. Anyone over the age of 16 wishing to become a volunteer is asked to stop by the station any Monday evening and a firefighter will give a tour of the equipment and facilities.