The Brookesmith Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD) is proud to announce it has received a $20,000 donation from the Oncor Cares Foundation in support of the department’s mission to serve and protect the Brookesmith community and surrounding rural areas.

The contribution — designated for general department support — arrives at a key time as BVFD works to secure funding for a new large brush truck, recently awarded through a $265,000 Texas A&M Forest Service grant. The grant requires a $40,000 local match, and BVFD has chosen to apply Oncor’s generous gift toward this critical community need.

“This donation could not have come at a better time,” said Fire Chief Willie Boenicke. “We are incredibly grateful to the Oncor Cares Foundation. Their support strengthens our department’s ability to serve, and allocating these funds toward our brush-truck match brings us significantly closer to placing this vital unit in service.”

The new brush truck will enhance BVFD’s ability to respond to wildfires, grass fires, structure fires, vehicle accidents, and emergency calls throughout southern Brown County — an area where volunteer responders are the first line of defense.

“Small rural departments like ours operate on limited budgets, and community support makes all the difference,” said Laura Connaway, Ladies Auxiliary. “Oncor’s contribution provided immediate relief and helped us take a major step toward meeting our match. We sincerely appreciate their investment in rural public safety.”

The Oncor Cares Foundation supports volunteer fire departments across Texas, recognizing the essential role they play in community protection. In its statewide announcement, Oncor shared, “We recognize and appreciate the life-saving role of our volunteer firefighters and are honored to support departments that protect Texas communities.”

BVFD now seeks to raise the remaining $20,000 to complete the brush-truck match.

Donations may be mailed to:
Brookesmith Volunteer Fire Department
PO Box 713
Brookesmith, TX 76827

For more information:
📧 [email protected]
📞 325-600-4676 (leave a message)

About the Brookesmith Volunteer Fire Department
The Brookesmith Volunteer Fire Department proudly serves Brookesmith and surrounding areas of Brown County. Operated entirely by volunteers, BVFD responds to fire emergencies, vehicle incidents, and rural community needs. The department depends on grants and local support to fund equipment, operations, and emergency response capabilities.