On November 23, 2025, the Robert Fulton Fire Company announced significant community support as it prepares to host its free Thanksgiving Day meal for area residents. The event, scheduled for Thanksgiving Day from noon to 3 p.m., is intended to provide a welcoming place for anyone in need of a home-cooked meal and friendly fellowship.

As an all-volunteer fire company, RFFC stressed the importance of protecting its general operating funds, which are vital for emergency response readiness, day-to-day operations, and long-term capital planning. Both of the company’s first-out attack engines are more than 30 years old, and replacing even a stripped-down engine can exceed $700,000, making careful financial stewardship essential.

That challenge led to an extraordinary partnership. Earlier this year, company members reached out to Putting Others First, a Quarryville-based philanthropy partnership, after learning about the organization through a feature in the Solanco Advertiser. Following a meeting with foundation representatives and a discussion of RFFC’s community programs — including the annual Thanksgiving meal and the department’s awards banquet — the foundation agreed to provide substantial support.

Putting Others First committed to covering all remaining expenses associated with the 2025 Thanksgiving Day meal, ensuring the event could move forward without drawing from the fire company’s general fund. In addition, the foundation pledged to cover all costs related to the fire company’s annual awards banquet scheduled for April 2026. By assuming these expenses, the foundation has enabled RFFC to continue directing its resources toward critical capital needs and future apparatus replacement.

Putting Others First focuses on supporting initiatives related to basic needs, education, and emergency response care, with an emphasis on serving the southern end of Lancaster County. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the foundation at pofpartners@gmail.com.

Fire company officials expressed heartfelt appreciation to Putting Others First and to the many individuals and businesses that have contributed food and monetary donations in recent weeks, noting that the overwhelming support reflects the generosity and compassion of the local community.