Earlier this month, Santel Communications Public Relations Specialist Weston Frank met with representatives from Sanborn County Ambulance to present a $1,000 donation toward the organization’s latest equipment campaign.
The donation helps Sanborn County Ambulance move another step closer to purchasing a powered loading system for its ambulance fleet.
Sanborn County Ambulance already utilizes a powered cot, but the additional power-loading unit would further improve how patients are lifted into and secured inside the ambulance. The equipment would also help reduce the physical demands placed on ambulance personnel and lessen the need for lift assistance from local fire departments in certain situations.
Aaron Fink with Sanborn County Ambulance said the organization is now approximately $11,000 short of its fundraising goal. The campaign has been funded entirely through donations, something the department is both proud of and extremely appreciative of as it works toward completing the project.
The timing is especially important, with a new ambulance expected to arrive in October. The goal is to have the powered loading equipment ready to be installed and placed into service with the new unit as soon as funds are raised.
Sanborn County Ambulance is county funded. They provide emergency medical services throughout Sanborn County while also working alongside neighboring ambulance services when additional coverage is needed. Crews regularly provide support at community events, sporting events, rodeos, football games and other gatherings where emergency medical personnel may be needed.
Providing emergency medical service in rural communities continues to present challenges throughout South Dakota. Staffing, funding, training and equipment all play a role in keeping local ambulance services prepared and available when emergencies happen. Investments in modern equipment not only improve patient care, but also help protect the EMTs and paramedics doing physically demanding work.
Santel General Manager Ryan Thompson said supporting local emergency services is an important part of supporting the communities Santel serves.
“Having capable, well-equipped emergency services nearby benefits everyone in the community,” Thompson said. “Sanborn County Ambulance serves the same communities where our employees, members, families and neighbors live and work. We are proud to help them move closer to their goal.”
The connection is especially close to home for Santel, whose headquarters are located within Sanborn County (Actually right across the street from the Station). While everyone hopes emergency services are never needed, having a properly equipped ambulance crew nearby provides an important level of preparedness for businesses, residents and visitors alike.
Sanborn County Ambulance is continuing its fundraising effort to close the remaining gap and have the new power-loading system ready for its incoming ambulance.
Those interested in donating or learning more about the project can contact Aaron Fink with Sanborn County Ambulance or reach out through the Sanborn County Ambulance Facebook page.