Nittany MinitMart Launches Sixth Annual "Fuel the Cause" Fire Company Fundraiser Rallying Communities to Support Local Volunteer Firefighters

Nittany MinitMart is excited to kick off its sixth annual “Fuel the Cause” Fire Company Fundraiser, running from March 31 through June 1. This year, the State College-owned convenience store chain is partnering with sponsors and customers to raise funds for 40 volunteer fire companies that serve its stores across Central and Northern Pennsylvania.

In Pennsylvania, over 90% of fire companies depend on volunteers to keep their communities safe. As volunteer fire companies contend with declining volunteer numbers and rising equipment costs, fundraisers like Fuel the Cause help provide critical resources to help keep these services strong. Shawn Agosti, deputy fire chief in Penfield, PA, remarks on the importance of fundraisers such as Fuel the Cause. “When I first started volunteering back in 1988, we probably had 40 firefighters. Now we're down to 25. Not as many people want to volunteer. But because of these fundraising events, we’re able to spend less time trying to raise money, and more time training and recruiting new volunteers.”

Last year’s Fuel the Cause fundraiser raised over $176,900.  As prices continue to rise each year, events like Fuel the Cause help defray the costs of needed equipment.  Several area fire companies used a portion of last year’s funds to offset the cost to purchase updated, life-saving equipment and modern tools like battery-operated saws and jaws of life improve efficiency and safety during emergencies. 

Nittany MinitMart and Pennsylvania Skills will each donate one cent for every gallon of gas sold during the fundraiser. Additional support will come from national and local sponsors’ contributions. Nittany Energy, Jacks Links, Coke, Pepsi, McAneny, DelGrosso, Hershey Candy, Nemo's, Barebells, Red Bull, Rotella Bakery, Glacierpoint Enterprises, Deiorio Foods, Herr's Snacks, Utz Snacks, Seneca Distribution, Swedish Match, and Brakebush are all supporting this year’s Fuel the Cause fundraiser. 

Customers can also donate at checkout and give back while indulging in a limited-edition, themed “Firehouse Foods” menu. Nittany MinitMart is donating a portion of the proceeds from every Firehouse Foods purchase to the campaign. 

“At Nittany MinitMart, we take great pride in supporting the volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to keeping our communities safe,” said Nicole Masullo, Operations Manager at Nittany MinitMart. “Their commitment is truly inspiring, and we’re honored to show our appreciation for their service for the sixth year in a row.”

Since the fundraiser started in 2020, Nittany MinitMart has raised over half a million dollars for area volunteer fire companies. Masullo said that the fundraiser has grown every year, and in 2025, she hopes to surpass last year’s record total.  Further stating, “None of this would be possible without our customers, who continue to turn up and support this cause year after year.” 

Visit your nearest Nittany MinitMart through June 1 to contribute to the Fuel the Cause fundraiser and help support the safety and well-being of your local community.