Eateries in Unity are being asked to “vacate” this month to assist the town’s fire department.
The new campaign is partnering with several restaurants in town. After customers finish their meal, they are asked to raise their check by at least $1 and donate it to their local fire department.
Gabe Monzo, executive director of Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, came up with the idea for “Let’s Stand Together” after seeing a similar campaign taking place in Delmont.
Monzo said customers can donate any amount they want. The campaign will continue until the end of October, which is National Fire Prevention Month.
The department includes all fire departments within the towns of Crabtree, Dry Ridge, Lloydsville, Margaret, Mutual, Pleasant Unity, and Youngstown-Whitney, and proceeds are used locally to meet state and federal grant requirements. will be applied to match funds.
Tom Schultheis, the town’s emergency management coordinator, said the department hopes to replace the aerial fire truck. The new ladder units cost approximately $1.4 million.
The additional funding will go toward annual testing of rescue tools and annual requirements for insurance companies to maintain compliance, he said.
Schultheis said it’s unclear how much money the campaign will raise, but “any amount helps.”
“We’ll see what happens,” Monzo said. “If it’s $1, it’s $1 more expensive than last month.”
Participating businesses include DeNunzio’s Italian Chophouse, Dino’s, Sharky’s, The Meadows Original Frozen Custard and Monday’s Tavern located at the airport, with hopes of adding more.
Monzo said retailers can also participate in this effort.
“I’m excited about this program. I’m really looking forward to all the participants,” Monzo said. “The door is open to anyone who wants to participate.”
At the end of each month, each facility will write a check to the office for the amount collected, minus taxes and credit card fees.
Mr. Monzo is a long-time member of the Youngstown Volunteer Fire Department and has been involved in the fire service for over 40 years.
“This is an opportunity for us to support them. They support the community, and it’s an easy way to do it,” Monzo said.
The facility that raises the most funds will receive a plaque.
Megan Swift is a Tribune-Review staff writer. Megan can be reached at 724-850-1204, mswift@triblive.com or on her Twitter. .
