We would like to thank Senate Minority Leader Dennis Algiere for his assistance in securing two Senate grants for much needed equipment. The first $5,000 grant allowed the Corps to purchase eight sets of ballistic vests, helmets and other equipment to protect our personnel during active shooter or other violent incidents. Although not common, we have had a few incidents over the past several years that showed a need for this type of equipment.

A second $5,000 grant will be put towards the purchase of upgraded emergency patient ventilators. These are devices that support the airway, ventilation and oxygenation of critically ill or injured patients while being transferred from our local hospital to higher levels of care. Our current units are older and need to be replaced with more modern devices to meet our patients' needs. One ventilator can cost up to $25,000. Having two allows us to have a spare should one be out for maintenance or in use on another call. We are still seeking additional donations and grants for this much needed equipment. If anyone would like to make a donation, please contact us. Our hope is to replace them this year.

As always, we thank everyone for their support. The Corps is a private, non-profit, 501(c)3 organization and is not a municipal department.