Fundraising expands as Plymouth fire station nears finish
With the construction of its new fire station on schedule for completion by August, the Plymouth Volunteer Firefighter's Association is turning to the wider community for help finishing the interior and outfitting the facility for use.
While the building itself is fully funded — thanks to a $600,000 state grant and support from the Milliron Foundation — the department continues to fundraise for essential items such as furniture, appliances, fitness equipment, and technology.
“As announced during the groundbreaking ceremony on September 12th, 2024, we launched a capital campaign with a goal of $70,000 raised,” wrote association treasurer Calvin J. Redden in a June 1 letter that was shared via Facebook on June 27.
“These funds are essential for furnishings, technology and communications equipment, as well as move-in expenses," it said.
In a recent Facebook post, the association said it had spent the past year sending letters to village residents and businesses with utility bills, sharing project updates and seeking support.
However, the department acknowledged that many in its broader coverage area — including Plymouth Township and part of New Haven Township — may not have received those mailings.
“We want to make sure everyone has a chance to be informed, and be a part of this important project,” the association wrote in the post. “We are sharing both letters so that residents outside of the village (and anyone else who may have missed them) can read more about our progress, our needs, and how you can help.”
The Facebook post also emphasized that contributions would go toward items that make the station functional and welcoming for first responders and the public, such as appliances, fitness equipment, technology installations, and furnishings.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference,” the association said.
Construction remains on schedule, with remaining work including concrete for the apron and parking lot, drywall finishing, door and fixture and appliance installation, painting, and landscaping.
The station is expected to become operational in the weeks following the estimated Aug. 1 completion date.
The firefighters association noted that while construction was fully funded through a state grant and support from the Milliron Foundation, with no added burden on local taxpayers, community help is still needed to outfit the station by opening day.
As a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, the department can provide donation receipts upon request. Contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 23, Plymouth, OH 44865, or arranged through any department member. Questions can be sent to plymouthfireassoc@yahoo.com, as stated in the letter. About $13,000 had been raised at the time of the letter.
“With your help, we can ensure this new fire station is fully equipped and ready to serve on day one," the letter stated.
“This new station represents a long-overdue investment in the safety and effectiveness of our emergency services,” it also said.
A CLOSER LOOK
You can read the June 1, 2025 and Aug. 19, 2024 letters here, along with the Facebook post.