Supporting Ashland's Volunteer Rescue Squad: Join the Meal Train

The blaze in Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad’s station on February 28 has been felt deeply throughout the community. The fire—caused by a battery system failure in an ambulance—damaged the squad’s home base, forcing volunteers to operate temporarily out of Hanover Fire Station 1. Thankfully, no one was injured, and emergency services in Ashland remain uninterrupted thanks to swift action from Hanover County Fire-EMS.

For the Downtown Ashland Association, this tragedy strikes especially close to home—literally. Their offices, located in the Dominion Energy Innovation Center, sit right next door to the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad. The squad has been an unwavering supporter of Ashland’s most beloved events, particularly Ashland Train Day, where they provide first responder services, showcase their ladder truck for Touch-a-Truck, and offer space for the Richmond LEGO® Users Group. As the Richmond LEGO® Users Group moves to NextHome Advantage at 202 England St. and volunteers work to secure more trucks for Touch-a-Truck on April 26, it’s clear that the squad’s presence is deeply woven into the fabric of the community.

“Ashland's brave Volunteer Rescue Squad always answers our community’s call—now it’s time for us to rally behind them,” says Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director "Coach" Antonio Miller.

Meal Train Sign-Up

Downtown Ashland Association has launched a Meal Train to provide meals and donations to support the squad as they transition to their temporary location. Meal drop-offs are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays to ensure volunteers receive consistent support without overwhelming them with generosity.

“As a community, we take care of each other,” says Downtown Ashland Association Director of Operations Lou Keeton. “I’ve seen meals made by Ashlanders go miles, so we’ll limit the number of meals donated until and if the Volunteer Rescue Squad asks for more.”

For those who prefer to give in other ways, gift cards and monetary donations allow the squad to purchase meals and supplies when needed. Shopping locally for meal donations also strengthens Ashland’s businesses, keeping every dollar spent within the community.

The Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad has always answered the call—providing first responder services, supporting community events like Ashland Train Day, and being a steadfast presence in times of crisis. Now, it’s time for Ashland to rally behind them.

To sign up for the Meal Train or make a donation, visit [insert link]. Every meal, every dollar, and every act of kindness helps bring our first responders a little closer to home.