As many village, city and county agencies feel the pinch from reductions in funding from the state and federal levels, the same goes for various townships, along with township emergency personnel, who in most cases are volunteers.

At the same time, many of these organizations look to continue to help others in need.

While these reductions often force the entities to either reduce services or reduce personnel, many organizations find creative ways to meet their financial needs.

This is exactly what the Upper Township Fire Department will do with its chili cook-off.

In addition to the cook-off, those in attendance are being asked to bring a canned food item that will be donated to the Backpack Buddies program at Campbell Chapel.

These events are important for the organization, but the level of service to others should always be at the forefront.

Being able to overcome these obstacles is a challenge, but having events like this shows the dedication these organizations have for the communities they serve.

We encourage the residents of not only Upper Township to attend, but anyone else throughout the county to help support these causes.

It is that support that makes this county a special place to live.