Milo Fire Department receives emergency drinking water donation

MILO — Thanks to Anheuser-Busch and the Maine-based Valley Beverage, the Milo Fire Department now has a pallet of emergency drinking water to support relief efforts and hydration. A pallet containing 98 cases of drinking water was dropped off at the station mid-morning on Thursday, Sept. 26.

Valley Beverage Sales Manager Mike Crowell said the 98 cases contain more than 2,300 12-ounce cans of water, which was awarded to the Milo Fire Department via an application process. “It’s great and I’m sure it will go to good use,” he said.

Observer photo/Stuart Hedstrom
WATER FOR MILO FIRE DEPARTMENT — Anheuser-Busch and Valley Beverage dropped off a donation of 98 cases of drinking water to the Milo Fire Department on Sept. 26. From left are Jared Herrin of Valley Beverage, firefighter Ricky Bradeen, Valley Beverage Sales Manager Mike Crowell and firefighter Kris Wilson.

Through a partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council, the national association serving volunteer fire departments, Anheuser-Busch has committed to providing a million cans of emergency drinking water to fire departments this year to provide critical hydration to those who are protecting their communities when they need it most.

Crowell said the water is sourced from the Anheuser-Busch’s brewery in Cartersville Georgia. The brewery at times will halt beer production to can drinking water to be ready to help communities in times of disaster.

According to the company, Anheuser-Busch has a longstanding tradition of providing emergency drinking water and supplies for disaster relief efforts in partnership with the American Red Cross — dating back to 1906. Since 1988, Anheuser-Busch and their wholesaler partners have provided more than 80 million cans of water to U.S. communities affected by natural disasters nationwide. More information can be found at www.nvfc.org/water.

A family-owned company since 1974, President Mike Runser and Valley Beverage (www.valley-beverage.com) said they are committed to providing customers with exceptional service and expert knowledge. Though they have far more brands and services than 45 years ago, the one constant over the years has been the dedicated, passionate and motivated workplace. Valley Beverage has locations in Oakland and Lewiston.

The National Volunteer Fire Council is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, emergency medical and rescue services. The council serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides advocacy, resources, programs and education.