Fall River Fire Special Services Hosts Annual Hot Dog Fundraiser

For the past decade, the Fall River Fire Department Special Services/EMA team has been a cornerstone of community support and camaraderie through their highly anticipated annual Hot Dog and Beer fundraiser.

The highly anticipated event has been a vital source of funding for the department's specialized needs while fostering a sense of unity among firefighters and the community.

Mark your calendars for Friday, September 6, when the Elks Lodge in Fall River will host this year’s hot dog bonanza from 6:00 to 10 PM. For just $15, attendees will enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast featuring a staggering 1,000 hot dogs, complemented by chow mein, coney sauce and a selection of Blount's generously donated chili and chowder.

In addition to the mouthwatering menu, the evening will feature a 50/50 raffle and various prize drawings.

Music lovers can look forward to live performances by the dynamic electric duo Vital & Drown, featuring Chris Vital and Wendy Drown. Their eclectic set promises to cater to diverse musical tastes and keep the atmosphere lively.

Captain Chris Caron of Fall River Fire Special Services and Deputy Director of Emergency Management, reflected on the fundraiser’s significance.

"When I first started, plans for this event were already in place. It was brought to Chief Richard Aguiar’s attention back in 2014 and has been our primary fundraiser ever since. It’s immensely successful and serves as a vital link between the fire department, surrounding departments and the SouthCoast community."

The Fall River Fire Special Services team operates as a national standard fire protection agency, providing essential support during emergencies. They distribute water, Gatorade and snacks to firefighters battling blazes and offer full meals for extended operations. Additionally, they deploy light towers and generators to aid visibility during night fires.

The team’s commitment extends beyond emergencies, as it also supports city events such as the battleship boxing match and Fourth of July fireworks, setting up lighting towers to ensure public safety. With 30 to 40 events annually and regular parade participation, their dedication is commendable.

Volunteers, ranging in age from 18 to 75, are the heart and soul of the Fire Special Services team. Their enthusiasm and dedication reflect the strong sense of family and mutual support.

In addition to the hot dog event, the Fall River Fire Special Service Department has introduced a new fundraiser earlier this year featuring chourico and chips, set to take place around February or March.

For tickets and more information, contact Captain Chris Caron at 508-491-7975 and join in on celebrating a decade of service and community spirit at this fantastic event —where every hot dog served is a testament to the dedication of Fall River’s finest.