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(WNY News Now) – Celoron, NY – WNY News Now met with Captain Jordan Smith of the Celoron Volunteer Fire Department, shedding light on the community’s reliance on volunteer firefighters and the upcoming boot drive to sustain their crucial operations.
In a recent interview with WNY News Now, Captain Jordan Smith of the Celoron Volunteer Fire Department showcased the essential equipment and vehicles used in their daily operations, including fire trucks and a water and ice rescue boat. The dedication of these volunteers serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring heroes while reminding adults of life’s fragility and the ever-present reality of life and death.
Despite Chautauqua County’s approximately 40 fire stations, only three operate as paid departments, with Celoron not among them. The financial burden of maintaining equipment, providing training, and covering operational costs falls squarely on the shoulders of the volunteer community. With an annual call volume of around 800, the station expends significant labor hours, coupled with the substantial expense of outfitting each volunteer, averaging upwards of six thousand dollars per individual with a roster of up to 30 volunteers.
To offset these expenses, the department relies on community support, organizing events such as the upcoming boot drive scheduled for this Saturday, April 20, 2024. Volunteers will be stationed at the intersection in front of Lucille Ball Park in Celoron and Wegmans in West Ellicott, collecting donations to fund essential services. Additionally, the department plans to host a spaghetti dinner in the fall and operate a beverage tent at the Celoron Ribfest this summer.
The symbolism of the boot drive resonates deeply within the community, epitomizing the selflessness and camaraderie embodied by volunteer firefighters. As neighbors and friends, they willingly risk their lives to ensure the safety and well-being of others, embodying the adage of walking a mile in another’s shoes. This collective sacrifice underscores the invaluable role these individuals play in times of uncertainty and distress, reinforcing the bonds of community spirit and resilience.
As the community rallies behind the Celoron Volunteer Fire Department, it’s a poignant reminder of the everyday heroes among us and the sacrifices they make to safeguard our homes and families. Every contribution, whether monetary serves to uphold the vital services provided by these volunteers, ensuring the continued safety and security of our community.
This Saturday, April 20, 2024, marks an opportunity for residents to show their appreciation and support by participating in the boot drive. Whether through monetary donations or simply spreading awareness, every effort counts in sustaining the operations of the Celoron Volunteer Fire Department. In the face of adversity, let us come together as a community to fill the boots that carry us through life’s most challenging moments, standing in solidarity with those who risk their lives for the greater good.
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