Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Construction is well underway for the new Drakes Branch Volunteer Fire Department (DBVFD) and Municipal Building, and while the DBVFD is looking forward to the completion of the building and being able to have all of its trucks in one building the department is seeking donations to help.

Following floodwaters from Tropical Storm Michael in 2018, portions of the building that houses both the DBVFD and town office were left unusable. Two fire trucks have been displaced.

In December 2019, the Town of Drakes Branch and the DBVFD were notified they were the recipients of a USDA grant and loan that would help with building and equipment needs following Tropical Storm Michael.

According to State Director of Rural Development Elizabeth Walker Green with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Town of Drakes Branch received a $17,000 loan and a $50,000 grant.

Green said the funds would be used to purchase a truck for the Public Works Department and furniture and equipment for the new building.

The DBVFD received a $20,000 loan and a $50,000 grant.

According to Green, those funds will be used for, “A truck for hauling rescue and fire equipment, office equipment and office furniture.”

“We are thankful for the many words of encouragement and excitement from the community,” the DBVFD said on its Facebook page. “This is after all your building. More importantly, we are thankful for the support as we will need it more than ever.”

Donations to the DBVFD can be made at www.facebook.com/drakesbranchfireandrescue/