ISLAND FALLS – The National Starch and Chemical Foundation is continuing a tradition of support with donations to the Island Falls Ambulance Service and the Island Falls Fire Department.
Photo courtesy of National Starch
DONATION — Paul Breton of the Island Falls Ambulance Service and other members appreciate a $1,050 donation from the National Starch and Chemical Foundation to help fund EMT and paramedic training for members. In addition, National’s foundation donated $1,200 to the Island Falls Fire Department to help the squad purchase new cutters in the jaws-of-life equipment.
Joshua McNally, who does double-duty as both Ambulance Director and Fire Chief, said that the funds will be used for education and for upgrading equipment.
“The town provides financial support,” said McNally, and we raise money as well. For the Ambulance Service, National’s $1,050 donation will replenish our education account, which is getting really low. This year, we helped two members gain certification as licensed EMTs. Two others are undergoing basic EMT training now, and three members will be certified as paramedics in December.”
The Island Falls Fire Department received $1,200 from National, which helped pay for new cutters in the jaws-of-life equipment.
“The cutters we had were 30 years old and really needed to be replaced,” said McNally.
According to McNally, the Fire Department and Ambulance Service are actively seeking new members.
“Many of the same people serve on both,” he said. “We’re building a new facility. Both squads will be in the same building. That will boost morale, and we hope it will attract new members.”
