The funding allowed the department to buy a raincoat for every employee, along with four dry suits designed to keep firefighters dry during floods or cold-water operations.

“Instead of doing fundraisers, I just figured I would write the grant for you and see what we could do,” said Sherry Toth, secretary of Rotonda Elks Lodge 2710. Toth said she learned about the department’s need after meeting an Englewood Fire Department crew during a public event.

Toth said the lodge consistently looks for projects that make a positive impact locally. “I am thrilled to be able to do this for our community,” she said.

Englewood Fire Chief Kevin Easton said the grant directly supports firefighter safety while helping the department manage public resources responsibly.

“We strive to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and to make every dollar count,” Easton said. “On behalf of the entire department, I am sincerely grateful to the Rotonda Elks for their continued support and for this grant, which allowed us to purchase essential gear that helps keep our crews safe and operational in all weather conditions.”

Toth and her husband, Ed, a past exalted leader of the Elks, later visited Fire Station 71 to see the raincoats and dry suits in person.

For more information, contact Todd Dunn at 941-949-2328 or TDunn@Englewood-Fire.com.

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