A flea market and basket raffle fundraiser at Penn Forest Fire Company No. 2 brought community members together to support the volunteer fire department and help raise money for equipment and other operating expenses.

Volunteer firefighters Dustin Richard and Jake Bowen said they got involved with the department after Bowen’s son, Kevin, joined the junior firefighters program. Richard has served with the department for four years and Bowen for three years.

The firefighters said fundraising is important because of the department’s ongoing needs.

“Money for uniforms is crucial, and we don’t always get it,” Bowen said, adding that uniforms cost $25,000 each.

Tickets for the basket raffle had been sold for six weeks. Participants had a chance to win one of 50 baskets featuring items, such as gift cards from local restaurants, sporting event tickets, cooking packages, toys, T-shirts and blankets.

“I’m in my natural habitat, shopping,” joked Helen Hartmann of Jim Thorpe, as she browsed items for sale at outdoor vendor tables.

Among the vendors was Patti Skvoretz, who displayed kitchen towels, coasters and bags in a variety of colors and designs. Skvoretz said she has been crocheting and knitting her products for more than 20 years.

Fire company volunteers staffed the kitchen and sold 50/50 raffle tickets.

Fire Police Sgt. Steve Okula said proceeds from the event will support the department’s general fund.

“Equipment is our number one need,” Okula said.

He said money also is needed for fuel, vehicle repairs, safety equipment, building maintenance and overhead expenses such as electricity and insurance.

Briarcrest resident Eileen Sehenuk found stocking stuffers and baby booties while shopping at the event. Sehenuk said she has two children and two grandchildren and is expecting her second great-grandchild.

Vendor Elaine Ventimiglia, who was selling the booties, said she is “trying to downsize and hopefully focus on not purchasing more,” something she acknowledged can be difficult at flea markets.

Mike Kleintop, who began making cutting boards five months ago, explained his process. After gluing and sanding the wood, he applies a “food grade mineral oil and beeswax.” He said he then “scorch paints” the pieces before applying an outdoor polyurethane finish.

Kleintop said a design such as an owl scorched into the wood takes about three hours to complete.

The event featured a variety of items for sale while helping support the fire company.

A chicken barbecue will be held at the fire company Aug. 21. Additional upcoming events, including a pancake breakfast, can be found on the department’s Facebook page.

Penn Forest Fire Company No. 2 is located at 1387 Route 903.