Somerset volunteer firefighters host picnic to raise funds

SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa (WTAJ) -- One Somerset County volunteer fire department is hosting a picnic fundraiser on Friday.

The Shanksville Volunteer Fire Department is holding their fundraiser at the Community Grove off Cornerstone Road. The event has been held for over 90 years and is a staple for the community.

"We get support from all over the community and neighboring communities," Roger Brant, volunteer firefighter, said. "Everybody just comes down and has a good time."

Funding is done through different raffles and activities presented at the picnic. It kicks off with a parade, followed up by:

• Basket raffles
• Gun raffles
• Dunk Tank
• Dime Toss
• Giant bouncy race
• Live music and entertainment

The main purpose of the picnic is to raise money for the firefighter to be able to serve the Shanksville community. "It basically goes into our general fund to help get us through the year," Brant said. "We had well over 130 baskets last year."

Shanksville VFD does gain help from corporate sponsors to help pay for entertainment. "It's hard and a lot of people are willing t...