What an amazing community we live in!
When we asked our fire department what they needed that was not going to be covered by their 2024 budget, they gave us a list (see below) that totaled almost $105,000 so we turned to the community and shared that request with them. We published these fundraising goals on our website, held a Crawfish/Shrimp Boil, sent out letters and put on a BBQ/auction.
The response was phenomenal! These fundraisers in addition to some private donations from family trusts resulted in the community funding $80,000 of the two-year goal of $105,000.
You are amazing.
As members of the PFD auxiliary, we hear from the officers and first responders firsthand and often about how grateful they are for the community support they receive. On behalf of them we say, “Thank you.”
Here’s how your contributions will make a difference:
Goal 1: SimBodies Trauma Care/EMS Manikin – $34,000
We aim to purchase a highly realistic training manikin to provide lifelike trauma care scenarios. This investment will allow our paramedics to practice vital skills such as CPR, airway management, bleeding control, and medication administration in controlled, realistic environments. The SimBodies manikin will enable the fire department to simulate emergency situations, including car accidents, ensuring our team is prepared for the challenges of real-life rescues.
Goal 2: GlideScope – $6,700
The GlideScope Go is an essential tool for emergency intubation. It provides enhanced visualization for more accurate and quicker airway management. Its compact design allows our paramedics to use it effectively in difficult or confined spaces, increasing success rates on the first attempt and minimizing complications.
Goal 3: Mental Health Services – $10,000
First responders face unique physical and mental challenges, and providing support for their mental health is crucial. These funds will be dedicated to offering counseling and wellness services to both our firefighters and their families, helping them manage the emotional toll of the life-saving work they do.
Goal 4: Training Gear (Bunker Gear) – $54,000
Our firefighters need durable, high-quality training gear that protects them from hazardous conditions. A second set of bunker gear will allow them to train rigorously without risking contamination or damage to the gear used in actual rescues. This backup set ensures readiness while maintaining their safety.
