The Camillus Volunteer Fire Department has regained their not-for-profit status, Sen. Charles Schumer said today.

The department had lost their tax-exempt status, hindering their ability to accept donations and hold fundraisers.

Schumer helped to push the department’s request through the IRS, in order to retroactively reinstate the status the department had previously. The not-for-profit status was revoked after “technical paperwork issues,” Schumer said.

Allowing not-for-profit status will allow the fire department to accept a $13,000 donation that has sat in limbo.

“Losing their tax exempt status had the Camillus Fire Department caught in a bind, unable to apply for federal grants and raise private funds from thoughtful citizens who wanted to make sure the firefighters had the tools they need to stay safe,” said Schumer. “No firefighter should ever be sent into a blaze without the necessary equipment to stay safe, so I’m thrilled that the IRS has reversed course and given Camillus their proper status back. This decision will help the Department compete for federal funds and should be a boost to their fundraising as well. Our first responders have our back every day, and it’s my job to make sure the federal government has theirs.”

The department was not able to accept donations after losing their status. They’re currently planning to use donations for the purchase of equipment, such as oxygen tanks.

“The Camillus Fire Department is grateful for the time and effort Sen. Schumer devoted to helping us get our not-for-profit status back,” said Camillus Volunteer Fire Department Chief Doug Groesbeck. “It feels good to know that when the firefighters need help, there’s someone there ready to answer our call.”