GILLETTE, Wyo. — The Powder River Energy Foundation announced today that it has facilitated $15,000 in direct donations to local volunteer fire departments through the WyoGives “Day of Giving.”
The annual online fundraiser, which took place July 12, allows local charities to leverage matching funds from entities like the Hughes Charitable Foundation, according to the release. The PRECorp Foundation dedicated all money raised to volunteer fire departments in Campbell, Crook Johnson, Sheridan and Weston counties. Matching, direct and board-donated funds totaled $15,000. Each county received $3,000.
Departments are using funding for items like personal protective equipment; equipment maintenance, repair or replacement; and coolers for drinking water. Campbell County will use the funding to support 56 volunteer staff at its fire stations. Crook County will use the funding for support maintenance, tools, fuel and equipment, and Johnson County will supplement funding for volunteer departments in Kaycee, Buffalo and Johnson County Fire District. Sheridan County will direct funding for volunteer departments in Big Horn, Clearmont, Dayton, rural Sheridan, Story and Ranchester. Weston County will direct funding for volunteer departments in Newcastle, rural Weston County and Upton.
“Firefighters go into action for wildfires and other emergencies that affect our communities. We truly appreciate and support our neighbors who selflessly put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” Foundation Executive Director Jeff Bumgarner said in the release. “When the call comes, you respond. You are the best of the best!”
County 17 has reached out to the Campbell County Fire Department for more details on the county’s use of the donations and its current needs.
Deputy Chief J.R. Fox said this afternoon that he was informed earlier today that the foundation was making the donation to Campbell County’s volunteer firefighters association. The association’s work includes running scholarships and providing physical fitness equipment, among many other initiatives.
PRECorp also announced Sept. 21 that Powder River Energy Foundation is partnering with a Campbell County resident on a student scholarship program.
