Leechburg's fire company doesn't let pandemic-related supply chain issues stop Lenten fish fries

While many fire department and volunteer groups have canceled their Lenten fish fries this year thanks to skyrocketing costs, the fish fry tradition continues at the Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company.

Customers filed inside the firehall at a steady pace Friday evening as more than 10 volunteers kept busy cooking, preparing and packaging fried fish sandwiches, shrimp and chicken.

Leechburg VFC has served Leechburg for more than 131 years.

Self-funded through direct donations, the annual fish fry is an essential fundraiser for the company.

The company initiated a 2022 capital campaign to raise money for a new fire engine that is scheduled for delivery in September. The cost of the new engine is $377,000.

The Leechburg fire company has reached 90% of the cost through ongoing fundraisers.

Supply chain issues have affected fundraisers, company officials said, and Leechburg’s organizers expressed their thanks to the public for supporting the fish fry.

“Your donation is greatly appreciated,” said longtime volunteer Melissa Aller of Leechburg.

April Smith, 32, is a new fish fry volunteer this Lenten season.

Smith is deaf but reads lips, and she has settled in, learning the fish fry ropes and helping to package almost 300 fish sandwiches last week.

“I like to help everyone and be with people,” Smith said.

Customers may dine in or get food to go. Delivery is available.

The fish fry operates from 3 to 7 p.m. every Friday through Lent.

Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company is at 268 Canal St.