COLD SPRING, NY—The Cold Spring Fire Company No. 1 has announced the launch of a 2025 fundraising campaign to raise $40,000 for essential equipment and communications upgrades. As a nonprofit organization with an annual operating budget of just $143,000, the all-volunteer fire company depends heavily on community support to continue providing life-saving emergency services to residents of Cold Spring, Nelsonville, and the surrounding areas.

Unlike municipal fire departments, the Cold Spring Fire Company is not a taxing authority and must rely on limited funding sources to meet the operational demands of today’s fire and rescue environment. Rising costs, aging vehicles, and new technology requirements are stretching the budget further than ever.

A primary driver of the current fundraising effort is the recent upgrade to the Putnam County 911 dispatch system. This modernization requires the company to replace and update its communication infrastructure, including pagers, handheld radios, and apparatus radios. These are critical tools that ensure a safe, effective response to emergencies.

Additionally, the fire company must continue to maintain its existing fleet of apparatus, replace worn or outdated gear, and outfit new members with the protective equipment required to respond safely.

Community members are encouraged to support the campaign by visiting https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/fundraising/donate-to-make-a-difference-10435 or by scanning the QR code provided on flyers distributed throughout the village.