Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company has received a $50,000 donation toward its truck fund.

Auxiliary President Chris Lilly recently presented the check to fire company President Corey Guerra.

Lilly said the money is to be used toward the truck fund in addition to what the group had already contributed.

She said firefighters, members of the auxiliary and fire police were honored during a special ceremony at the fire company’s Valentine’s dance held earlier this month.

Township fire Chief Lynn Diehl acted as master of ceremonies in the presentation of service pins and conducted the program.

Three firefighters have served more than 45 years, while Francis Kresge, fire police lieutenant, has surpassed that milestone as well.

Bruce Wolfe, who previously served as fire chief, began in 1973; Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Lilly in 1976; and Diehl in 1977. Phil Nuccio was also recognized for 20 years.

Ten-year service pins were awarded to Mark Serfass and Corey Guerra, while five-year service pins went to Eric Beers, Juan Carlos Fuentes, Clinton Hawk, Carl Bonser, Jacob Bonser, Roxanne Stroup, Walter Achey and Barry Hoffman.

Also longtime community volunteers recognized for their years of service were Bob Mertz and Dale Ahner (over 40 years); Todd Hawk (over 35); Eric Lilly and Justin Smith (over 25); Chauncey Hearn, Tom Chew, Dave Keiser, Adam Pretko and Gene Crostley (over 15); John Venuto, John Gula, Chris Hardy and Austin Lilly (over 10); Ken Meyer, James Sandt Jr. and William Highland (over 5).

“Members of the fire company auxiliary were also recognized,” Lilly said. “It was noted that their dedication has seen thousands of dollars raised in numerous activities including yard sales, pizza and filling sales, takeout dinners, kitchen bingo, etc., and helped fund the recent expansion to the building and its remodeling.”

Lilly added that thanks to the generosity and support of the community, the auxiliary has been able to earmark many of its proceeds for the truck fund. She said that each quarter, the members had been transferring $2,400 to the truck fund, and that amount was increased to $3,000 quarterly.

In continuing with its fundraising efforts, the fire company and auxiliary have planned numerous events, including a dance on March 11 featuring the music of South Penn Dixie. Admission is $10, with both the kitchen and bar open for cash sales. The fire company does not allow outside food or beverages.

Other upcoming events include:

• Lehighton Rotary Craft Show, April 1.

• Easter Filling Sale, April 4, deadline March 31.

• Good Friday Pizza Sale, April 7, deadline March 17

• LifeLine Screening, April 17.

• High Stakes Bingo, April 29.

• Mother’s Day Take Out Dinner, May 12.

• Outdoor Adventure Day, May 20.

• Car Show & Breakfast, June 4.

• Father’s Day Take Out Dinner, June 16.

Anyone who would like to become a member of the fire company, fire police or auxiliary may contact any member or stop by the fire company during Monday night fire practice at 6 p.m.; auxiliary meetings on the first Wednesday, fire company meetings on the second Tuesday, or fire police meetings on the second Wednesday of every month. Monthly meetings begin at 7 p.m.