Back to School Bash Aug. 13
Everything comes at a cost, and Richards Volunteer Fire Department is no stranger to this fact. RVFD suffices on a smaller budget yearly and an even smaller team than most in the county, but they still manage to make every call possible and provide efficient emergency services. The group consists of 10 members, and meets weekly to complete training, learn new techniques as well as perfect current skills and they exist on a budget consisting of $37,000-plus from Grimes County with additional donations and support. Financially RVFD needs a budget of over $60,000 annually to fully operate as best as possible, but with increasing gas prices, equipment getting closer to becoming outdated, even RVFD runs the risk of reaching their limit. “We will always be here for our community, but we need everyone to understand we cannot purchase new trucks like tankers and others with money provided by Grimes County,” explained Richards VFD Chief Cort Norwood. “That money supports other needs of the department, so we need the community to help with monetary donations if possible.”
Relying on local donations has been the strength of the department during hard times. Friends of Grimes County donated rehab items such as snacks, Gatorades, waters, as well as a monetary donation for additional purchases. Local donations for the rehab truck help maintain the members stamina and continue with their work.
Monetary donations help purchase new equipment, vehicles, and much needed safety gear. Yearly RVFD hosts their “Deer Hunters BBQ” selling BBQ plates and providing raffle items for purchase to help raise funds.
“Normally we operate on what we can raise from our Fill the boot and BBQ events, but it is becoming increasingly hard,” said Norwood. “We want to provide good services to the community, but we also want to have fun, and meet our community too.” The fire department currently supports a three-county area- providing mutual aid and support to both Walker and Montgomery county areas, with a primary response area in Grimes county stretching 60-plus miles.
This Saturday, Aug. 13, beginning at 10 a.m., the community will have another chance to fellowship and support RVFD. The group will host their first Back to School Bash offering free games, a waterslide and hotdog plates for purchase. The benefit will go back to RVFD and provides a safe and fun way for the Richards Community to hang out, play and get a good meal! Located at 1136 FM 149 E in Richards, the event will be set up on the VFD grounds with volunteers assisting in all areas.
The event is FREE to the public, but food, drinks will need to be purchased. Remember all the proceeds benefit the fire department, as well as support our community so come hungry and ready to play!
Upcoming activities in Grimes County: Aug. 18 - RISD Meet the Teacher and School Board meeting 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Aug. 22 - RISD First Day of School.
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Richards News