Volunteer firefighters throughout Lauderdale County respond and suppress fires nearly every day and receive no financial compensation for their contribution. 

The Meehan Volunteer Fire & Rescue, to supplement its funding from the Lauderdale County Fire Service, will host its sixth annual Meehan Day as a fundraiser for the department.

Specifically, volunteer first responder Margie Blackwell said the rescue wanted to raise money for turnout gear – including a helmet, boots and gloves – for two new fire academy graduates.

“We are strictly volunteers,” Blackwell said. “So we don’t get funds to do this.”

Though the county does provide fire turnout coats, Blackwell said the rest of the turnout gear could easily cost $1,000.

The fundraiser will include raffles for gift certificates from local businesses, such as oil changes, food and a wading pool for children. Food for sale includes whole Boston butts for $30, barbecue chicken or pork plates for $8 and a variety of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, candy and pies.

Blackwell said the department had additional costs such as power bills and propane for their building.

“We’re on call 24 hours a day,” Blackwell said. “We help serve the community so we need the people to support us.”

The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, and last “until the food runs out, usually by 3:30.” Blackwell said.

Blackwell said anyone interested in a Boston butt must order it in advance by calling her at (601) 604-3520 or at (601) 938-0443. Those interested may also call the volunteer chief Wayne Robinson at (601) 934-6389.