After a summer that has put Central Oregon’s volunteer fire community to the test, Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue is hosting a community breakfast to raise funds for the volunteer firefighters who protect the area year-round.
The Firefighter Breakfast Fundraiser is set for Sunday, September 6, from 7:30 to 11 a.m. at Station 501, located on SW Shad Road in Crooked River Ranch. There is no fixed ticket price — attendees are invited to donate whatever they feel comfortable giving. All proceeds will go directly to the Crooked River Ranch Volunteer Firefighters Association.
A Season That Tested Local Resources
This fire season has been one of the most demanding in recent memory for volunteer departments across Jefferson County and Central Oregon. Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue, like many rural departments, has faced the dual challenge of responding to local emergency calls while also deploying personnel to assist with regional wildfires.
A wildfire staffing grant earlier this summer helped the department maintain coverage by funding an additional firefighter each day — providing critical flexibility. But volunteer fire agencies always operate on tight margins, and fundraising events like this one are essential to keeping equipment maintained, training current, and recruitment strong.
How to Support
The breakfast is open to the entire community — residents of Crooked River Ranch, Madras, Culver, Metolius, and beyond are welcome. Showing up is itself a show of support for the men and women who answer the call when things go wrong.
- Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
- Time: 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
- Location: Station 501, SW Shad Road, Crooked River Ranch
- Cost: Your choice — any donation is appreciated
- Proceeds benefit: CRR Volunteer Firefighters Association
For more information, contact Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue directly or watch for updates on local community boards.