We’re highlighting the amazing departments we insure around the country and all they do for their communities. For this department spotlight we interviewed Penn Hills No. 7 VFC in Penn Hills, PA!
Your Names & Title: William Jeffcoat – Fire Chief
Department Name: Penn Hills No.7 VFC (Allegheny County Designation St.227)
Department Type: Volunteer & Live-In’s
When was your department founded?
Penn Hills No.7 was founded in 1949. The fire companies first fire truck was donated by North Braddock VFC. At the time, the fire station was located at the top of a hill and the founding members had to push the fire truck down the hill to jump start it.
The newly formed Penn Hills No.7 VFC response district was mainly farmland. As time went on the family farms went away and a mix of residential and commercial buildings changed the landscape.
What community/communities do you support?
Penn Hills No.7 VFC assists neighboring communities such as Verona, Plum, Wilkins Twp., Monroeville, Churchill, North Braddock, Forest Hills, East Pittsburgh, Braddock Hills, and Edgewood. Penn Hills No.7 VFC responds to about a 20 square mile response district and the Penn Hill’s population ranges from 60,000 – 80,000 throughout the day.
What types of engines do you have?
We have a heavy duty Class A pumper, heavy rescue, a 100 ft. ladder truck, fire officer command vehicle, light duty service vehicle, and a 14 ft. swift water rescue boat.
What fundraisers or other annual events do you host as a department?
We have two major fundraisers a year. For the last 23 years we have hosted our annual Gun Bash—an event that sells out every year with over 1,000 tickets sold. Our second fundraiser is a joint bingo event with an organization that raises money for service dogs for Veterans.
How has Provident been able to support your department and its members?
Anytime that we have had to make a claim, the knowledgeable Provident Claims Department is there to answer any question we may have. We have also been lucky enough to team up with Provident on multiple training programs.
To learn more about the Penn Hills No. 7 VFC, visit their website phvfd227.org and follow their Facebook page here.