Where Does Your Money Go?

The question always comes up in conversation, or at least it is on the top of everyone’s mind, “where does the money go?”

Benefit RC, the nonprofit organization that supports needs around Richland Chambers Lake, supports the five local Volunteer Fire Departments (VFD) through this fund-raising activity called Fuel the Firefighters Benefit & Poker Run. Over the past 9 years, Benefit RC raised over $389,000 for the local VFDs. All 100% of the proceeds collected goes to support these volunteers that make this lake a safer place to live.

In 2023, the total distribution was $120,000 for the VFDs. Here are just a few examples of where the money was spent:

–287 Richland Chambers Fire & Rescue – Two AEDs, 1600ft of hose, two battery powered chain saws, one power cutter saw, Hurst battery powered ram for Jaws of Life, new batteries and tires on tanker, sent 4 members to the Texas Fire School. In addition to this, a new building to house two trucks.

–Eureka VFD – Repaired 5-ton truck to get back in service, six new tires, new water pump, pump motor, light bar, radios, backup alarm, scene lights, new whip lines, and new 100ft red line. In addition to this, a new 30ft x 40ft has been added to the station.

–Kerens VFD – New brush truck

–Mildred VFD – Four sets of turn-out gear (bunker gear, helmets, boots and gloves)

–Southern Oaks VFD – Finish outfitting a large new brush truck (axes, hand tools, nozzle holders, SCBA bottle and harness racks, pike poles, ladders, toolboxes, 1 ½ inch fire hoses, first aid kit), insurance and utilities.

This year, the goal is to distribute to the VFDs a total of $125,000 thanks to our generous lake residents.

The highlight of this community fundraiser is the Annual Poker Run held on July 20, 2024, from 9:00am to 4:00pm at The Harbor Restaurant and Marina.

The participants or poker hands will use their boats/jet skis to gather chips up around the lake at the designated locations.

If people do not have access to a boat, they can simply attend the BBQ lunch provided by The Harbor Restaurant and pick up all the chips under the pavilion.

The F.O.G. Band will be playing and there will be silent/live auctions for everyone to bid on.

If you’re interested in getting involved or want to learn more, please contact RE/MAX Lakeside Dreams at

817-832-9317 or visit www.FuelTheFirefighters.com. If you or your company are considering donating, please contact Sponsorships Chair Bob Griffin at 972-523-8622 or rlgiff12@gmail.com.