For two-consecutive Saturdays this month, the southeast Iowa community was able to show its support for a pair of local fire departments while getting a good meal in the process.

The Kalona Volunteer Fire Department’s annual pancake breakfast was on April 6, and served more than 3,100 people. Proceeds from this free-will donation meal are going towards a new pumper/tanker fire truck that the department purchased earlier this year. Fundraisers like the pancake breakfast helped raise nearly 50 percent of the funds needed for the vehicle.

Just one week later, the Wellman Volunteer Fire Department hosted its annual tenderloin dinner. The fourth annual event has grown every year, serving more than 1,200 people on April 13 to raise approximately $28,000. These funds are going towards new gear for the firefighters.

Both departments expressed gratitude for the community support.