Pancakes have had a major effect on the operation of Riegelsville Community Fire Company. Not the breakfast food’s presence. Its absence, reports Drew Anderson for WFMZ 69 News. 

The fire company’s operating budget — like that of its counterparts across Bucks County — is funded partially by its municipality. 

The partially part means that volunteers are responsible for generating the remaining income on their own, rounding out the annual budget. Ordinarily, they fill shortfalls through fundraising activities and events throughout the year. 

Like Reigelsville’s monthly pancake breakfasts. And its themed dinners: spaghetti, pork and sauerkraut, roast beef, fried fish. 

When the pandemic pulled the plug on those fundraisers, the hole, a $50,000 one, appeared in the budget.  

Dollars aren’t the only necessity that has been in short supply over the past 18 months. According to firefighter Joel Roney, the organization also needs volunteers. 

“Volunteer numbers are dwindling,” Roney said. “We are always looking for volunteers.” 

Roney identified the basic qualities he and his fellow firefighters seek: “It only takes time and talent and a lot of training to move forward with us.” 

More on the challenges COVID-19 presents to volunteer fire stations is at WFMZ 69 News.