Fish Fry and Vendor Sale Pack Fire Company's Weekend

Non-profit organizations find fundraising events work best when carefully scheduled throughout the year—not only does it make it easier for participants but it certainly makes it easier for the volunteers organizing things.

And that was the plan for Woods Road Volunteer Fire Company, where a vendor sale in the fall and a fish fry in winter have long complimented Breakfasts with Santa and Easter fundraisers.

But when Hurricane Sandy blew through New Jersey, the fire company was forced to reschedule the vendor sale...to Sunday, two days after the fire company hosts one of its popular fish dinners.

Both events are crucial to helping the fire company maintain its firehouse, provide some equipment for the firefighters and recruit new volunteers.

Here's our suggestion: Hit 'em both.

Since it's Lent, many won't want to miss the fish dinner—and even those not marking Lent will find the $12 admission per adult is a bargain for all the tilapia, cod, clams, shrimp and even chicken you can hold. Tickets are sold at the door, so just stop by from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

Then, return to the firehouse between noon and 4 p.m. Sunday to get all the good stuff you couldn't get in November. We understand that was buying for the holidays, but you can get household items for a spring dressing, Easter presents and maybe an early start on this year's Christmas shopping.