Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Inc., recently launched its annual fund drive. The goal is $100,000, the same as last year, said squad spokesman Robert Parlett.

 As of Oct. 13, AVFR had received donations totaling $17,680, Parlett said.

The fund drive began a bit earlier this year as the squad mailed out over 8,700 solicitation letters to lower Gloucester residents and businesses. The squad made its goal last year, he said, but it took the regular fund drive plus gifts throughout the year in honor or in memory of loved ones.

“The squad does not charge for our services, either fire or rescue,” Parlett said. The fund drive helps raise money to pay for protective clothing for first responders, new equipment, fuel and other expenses, he added.

The squad’s service area is from Hickory Fork Road at White Marsh to Guinea and Gloucester Point. AVFR has provided volunteer service to the community since 1950, a flyer said.

Donations can be made to www.AVFR.com, ma...