“Literally, we need everything.”
That’s what Atalissa Fire Chief Mike Smock had to say when asked about the needs of his 21-person fire department that covers 49 square miles.
It’s also the reason the department hosts their annual public benefit “Soup Supper,” coming up this Saturday, Feb. 24, with serving beginning at 5 p.m. “until it’s gone.”
The free-will-donation event will take place at the fire station at 126 Depot Street.
Smock said the fundraiser has a goal of bringing in $5,000 for the department, which is not only in need of regular supplies, gear and upgrading fire department equipment, but could also be used to upgrade their fleet of fire trucks – the most modern a 2004 engine.
“It’ll probably be used toward vehicle replacement,” Smock said, noting the benefit is one of two fundraisers the volunteer first responders host every year – the other a pancake breakfast later in the fall.
Smock says the department’s only regular income is from local property taxes and it would take grants and donations from other sources to replace trucks that includes their oldest vehicle – a 1993 tanker engine.
The supper will feature four homemade soups including vegetable, beef & noodles, ham & potato as well as chili while those attending will also get some fresh baked desserts.
He said local cooks are welcome to donate desserts for the event.
Smock said about 150 are anticipated to attend – mainly residents from the rural areas, but would like to see more Atalissa residents and supporters from neighboring communities.
Smock, who has been chief for about three years, said the event has been a tradition in the community for over two decades.
He said anyone is welcome and noted the department really appreciates any support they can get.
The Atalissa department does play assistant roles for many of the neighboring communities along with responding to their own emergencies.
The chief said it’s difficult for rural fire stations to keep up with training and modern technology but said benefits like the soup supper are essential in keeping the doors open and fire fighters safe.
Anyone wishing more information can contact Smock at 319-321-7101.