DANDRIDGE, Tenn. — The Dandridge Fire Department hosted a fireworks stand during days leading up to the Fourth of July holiday, selling fireworks to raise money that would be used to support the fire department.
While the fireworks stand gave the Dandridge community an opportunity to shop for their favorite sparklers and firecrackers, this year's fundraiser was especially important. Leaders with the fire department said around $26,000 was cut from the fire department's budget, compared to the previous year.
On Friday, Chief Andy Riley said the department raised around $13,500 through the fireworks stand. He said sales were a little down this year because July 4 fell on a Thursday.
The department said money from the annual fireworks stand is usually used to purchase equipment needed to continue serving the community, such as personal protective equipment for firefighters. Most of the crew at the fire department are volunteers, and organizers said the fireworks stand is also a crucial way to cover operating costs.