JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – As a continuation of ongoing partnership with the Jamestown Fire Department, and in a show of support for the critical work the first responders do, Cavendish Farms donated $50,000 towards a new ladder truck.

“The previous ladder truck was at the end of its useful life but is required to protect high structures in Jamestown, like our frozen potato processing plant,” said Mark Urquhart, a retired volunteer firefighter and Director Western Agriculture, Raw Procurement for Jamestown’s Cavendish Farms plant. “The Jamestown Fire Department is an important community partner for us. We conduct hazardous materials training together each year for the safety of our operations and employees. We also have several employees who are current or retired volunteered firefighters.”

While the Jamestown Fire Department has already received the new ladder truck, they are still in need of community support to help offset the cost to taxpayers. The ladder truck cost $1 million and the goal is to have a third of the cost paid by local donors and businesses.

“I want to thank Cavendish Farms for their generous donation. It helps us get closer to covering the cost of this critical piece of equipment,” said Jim Reuther, Fire Chief of the Jamestown Fire Department. “We’re hoping additional community partners will join with Cavendish Farms to show their support for the work we do.”

“We encourage other organizations and groups to support this fundraising drive for the good of our entire community,” said Urquhart.