Chatham Emergency Squad Begins Annual Fundraising Efforts

On January 24th, more than 6,000 letters were mailed out to Chatham residents, businesses, religious organizations and community groups to kick off the annual funding campaign for the Chatham Emergency Squad. (CES).

The Chatham Emergency Squad (CES) is an all-volunteer organization funded almost exclusively by donations; they provide emergency medical assistance and transport to Chatham Borough and Chatham Township residents and visitors. The letter is intended to share the CES story, which is one of volunteerism and a dedication to serving residents in their time of need. The campaign letter explains that CES is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year by 68 trained EMTs who sacrifice days, nights, weekends and family time to serve their community.

Again this year, funding is needed to support a new ambulance purchased in 2016 and 3 power stretchers, which allow for the safe transfer of patients while preserving the health and backs of their EMTs. Hefty payments are required in 2018 and 2019 to complete the funding of these crucial purchases.

CES never charges for its services and raises 90% of its funding through this campaign; in 2017 they responded to nearly 1,100 emergency calls and provided free training in CPR to nearly 400 residents, teachers, coaches and emergency personnel in 2017. CES members ask that you be on the lookout for this letter or visit their website to make a donation.

To learn more, to donate or volunteer, go www.chathamemergencysquad.org.