Locals attending fundraisers by area fire departments gave an average of $20 to $21 in freewill donations.  Over $100,000 were raised between the Kalona, Wellman and Riverside pancake and tenderloin meal fundraisers. 

Kalona Volunteer Fire Chief Jerry Zahradnek reported that 2,994 people attended the Pancake Day on April 1 and donated an average of just over $20 each for a total of over $60,000.

“We want to thank the community for their generous donations and for braving the cold, rainy weather to stand in line for pancakes,” he said. “Their donations are greatly appreciated.”

He also thanked those people and businesses that made other donations toward the success of Pancake Day.

Zahradnek said the donations will help finance the purchase of a new pumper-tanker which should be delivered in time for Pancake Day 2024.

Wellman

Tracey Owens, treasurer of the Wellman Volunteer Fire Dept. said around 1,200 people enjoyed tenderloin meals on April 8. He noted it probably would have been more, but neighboring fire departments were out on mutual aid calls extinguishing grass fires.

“We raised around $25,000, compared to $21,000 last year,” he said.  “The support of the community is just amazing.”

He noted that the proceeds will go toward the purchase of protective gear for the firefighters.

Riverside

Those attending the Riverside Fire Department’s Pancake Day on April 2 also donated an average of $20 a person with 1,000 people donating just over $20,000, according to Fire Chief Chad Smothers. 

“We really appreciate the support of the community,” Smothers said. 

He noted that after expenses the money will go toward vehicle extrication equipment.