Nittany MinitMart will kick off its sixth annual “Fuel the Cause” Fire Company Fundraiser which runs 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.
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 to 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.
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.”
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This article was originally published on April 4, 2025, by the Wellsboro Gazette and Tioga Publishing.