Fire Department Auxiliary

The Stratham Fire Department Auxiliary was established shortly after the Fire Department became a chartered organization in 1951. It was called the “Ladies Auxiliary” and began in the typical fashion of that time.

Fire Department Ladies Auxiliaries began informally, with wives supporting firefighters by providing food, drinks, and fundraising for equipment. They became more formalized around the 1920s–1940s, especially during World War II, taking on support roles such as providing refreshments at emergencies and community events and becoming vital partners in fundraising and logistical support.

During World War II, women’s roles expanded significantly, with auxiliaries filling gaps as male firefighters served overseas, and some even engaging in firefighting duties.

In 2023, members voted to rename the group “Auxiliary” not only to modernize its image, but also to be more inclusive of any community member who wishes to join, regardless of gender.

The Auxiliary meets once per month at the Fire Department on the third Tuesday of each month, unless otherwise noted. We welcome new members.

Look for us around town at various community events! We serve food and drinks from “Big Red” at many events, including Summerfest, the Great Bay Food Truck Festival, the Department of Public Works Open House, Memorial Day and Veterans Day events, the Christmas Tree Lighting, and the Community Bonfire Event. We provide food for volunteers during town elections; donate gift cards and food baskets to those in need during the holidays; host two to three Red Cross blood drives per year; and provide disaster relief during fires and other emergencies throughout town.

Officers
Chair: Geri Denton
Secretary: Katie Bartel
Treasurer: Lisa Simko

And if you see Big Red out and about at local events, be sure to say hello; it probably means the Auxiliary is nearby, lending a hand.




Mission Statement
To support members of the Stratham Volunteer Fire Department in its mission to protect the lives and property of residents in the Stratham community and provide aid, both financial and otherwise, to the department in all its undertakings. To inspire a sense of community spirit and volunteerism by engaging in fundraising, educational events, and community-wide activities. To provide fire department responders with food and drink during fires and disasters, to raise funds to support fire department operations, the purchasing of equipment and to support other financial needs of the department. 

Vision Statement
Demonstrating extraordinary community spirit and engagement and increasing membership and awareness by providing strong leadership to become a model for volunteer fire departments

Values
Demonstrating professionalism, integrity, compassion, and responsibility while instilling a strong sense of community.