NEW PARIS — Like many firefighters across the state, members of Northwest Fire and EMS have to be both firefighters and fund raisers, so the department can have money to buy new equipment and meet the always-changing safety standards.

For the next several weeks, department representatives will be going door to door asking for a $20 donation. Each donor will receive a coupon for a free family portrait taken by a professional photographer at the fire station. The money from the donations will go to purchasing equipment needed to update and improve the department’s service to the community.

According to the Volunteer Firefighters Association, fundraisers are now more visible than ever before because the fundraisers are one way that the department can bring in additional revenue.

Additional funds are necessary since budget cuts are often passed on to the fire department.

The members of Northwest Fire and EMS would like to thank all area residents for their continued support.