Governor’s Proclamation Kicks Off Volunteer Firefighter Recognition Week as Nittany MinitMart Announces New Gas Discount for Volunteer Firefighters

In a proclamation announced by Governor Josh Shapiro, April 9th marks the beginning of Volunteer Firefighter Recognition Week in Pennsylvania, honoring the men and women who selflessly serve their communities as volunteer firefighters. This week-long celebration comes at a time when many departments face challenges with recruitment, funding, and resources. Nittany MinitMart, a local convenience store chain and a major supporter of area volunteer fire companies, requested the proclamation. 

Volunteer Firefighter Recognition Week aligns with the beginning of Nittany MinitMart’s annual Fuel the Cause campaign, which has raised over $500,000 to support local volunteer fire departments over the last six years. The campaign funds vital resources such as fire equipment, station maintenance, and volunteer recruitment. And this year, the company is going a step further to help firefighters not just while they’re fighting fires, but every day. 

Last Friday, Nittany MinitMart introduced a new initiative to thank current volunteer firefighters and add an extra benefit to anyone considering volunteering: “Starting today, volunteer firefighters will get 7¢ off every gallon of gas at Nittany MinitMart every single day.”​ To take advantage of the program, volunteers just have to reach out to Carla Miller, Nittany MinitMart’s Petroleum Category Manager, who has served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for over 20 years herself. Carla can be reached at carlam@nittanyenergy.com.

Last week, Nittany MinitMart hosted a lunch and press conference to kick off their sixth annual Fuel the Cause fundraiser. Throughout April and May, Nittany MinitMart and Pennsylvania Skill games will each donate one cent for every gallon of gas sold at Nittany MinitMart’s 28 stores. The kickoff event brought together elected officials, sponsors, fire chiefs, and community members, all united to raise awareness about the vital role of volunteer firefighters and the ongoing need for support. 

“It is a true honor for me to be here today in the presence of so many dedicated firefighters,” said Nicole Masullo of Nittany MinitMart at last week’s event. “Your courage, your sacrifice, and your unwavering commitment make a difference every day. You are the backbone of our communities.”

“Fuel the Cause isn’t just about raising money,” said Jason Browne of Nittany MinitMart. “It’s about making sure people think about their fire companies every time they pass one of our stores or fill their gas tanks. We’re building awareness, building energy, and reminding everyone that our communities are a family, and fire companies are a crucial part of that family.”

Representative Kerry Benninghoff also addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of supporting volunteer fire departments in the state. “We would be lost without firefighters,” he said. “Fuel the Cause is all about trying to make sure our firefighters are safe when they’re dealing with emergencies. They shouldn’t be having to shuffle gloves between each other or worry that their jackets aren’t fire retardant anymore. But that’s the reality–it costs over $2000 to equip one firefighter.” 

Volunteer Firefighter Recognition Week is an essential reminder that volunteer fire companies need our support year-round. Fuel the Cause is Nittany MinitMart’s way of helping give local firefighters the resources, recognition, and support they need to continue their life-saving work.