Greater Lewes Foundation forms fund for Lewes Fire Department

The Greater Lewes Foundation is coming to the rescue of the Lewes Fire Department, launching a permanent fundraising foundation to address soaring costs.

“We are excited, thrilled to be partnered with GLF,” said Greg Bennett, fire department president. “We’re grateful that they’re willing to help our long-term sustainability.”

Mike Rawl, GLF executive director, said the Lewes Fire Department Foundation is different from its other projects, like the Fourth Street Preserve open space campaign, because it does not have an end-goal figure.

“This creates an ongoing, permanent mechanism,” Rawl said. “Their current revenues are not sustainable; it must be run like a business, a critical business for the community.”

The foundation’s board, chaired by Bill Huntley, met for the first time Jan. 16. It is now in the process of forming committees and a budget process to focus on new sources of revenue.

Rawl said there will be an educational component to the GLF campaign, so people who are moving here know the Lewes Fire Department is an independent nonprofit organization, not supported by taxpayer money. The City of Lewes does typically give an annual donation of $75,000.

Bryan Pepper, the fire department and foundation treasurer, said the GLF fund could not have come at a better time. He said without more support, the department is facing a deficit by the end of the year.

“Due to rapidly rising fire and EMS costs, 2026 will be the first year the fire department is unable to set aside a reserve, typically $1.5 million to $2 million, for capital expenses including vehicles and personal equipment,” Pepper said in a news release from GLF announcing the partnership. 

“We need to think outside the box,” said Bernie Edmondson, the fire department’s chief marketing officer. “GLF approached us and said they wanted to help.”

Edmondson pointed to a fundraising challenge that launched in the fall.

“The Lewes Fire Department recently received a generous $5,000 donation from Michael Clemmer and Wendell Alfred, residents of Lewes, who hope the gift will inspire others in the community to support the department’s vital work,” he said. “Both gentlemen have issued a friendly challenge to residents and local businesses to match or exceed their contribution, emphasizing that every dollar helps the department purchase and maintain lifesaving equipment, fund training and support the department’s dedicated first responders.”

Edmondson said outfitting one firefighter with a coat, pants, helmet, gloves and more costs in excess of $7,500.

“The urgency is such that we couldn’t wait,” Rawl said. “We need to get ahead of that deficit. I’m optimistic the foundation will be a great success.”

To donate to the Lewes Fire Department Foundation, go to greaterlewesfoundation.org.