Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation announced the award of a $16,313 grant to Ashville Fire Department to ensure first responders have the necessary equipment to keep community members and themselves safe.
The grant will be used to purchase a LUCAS 3 Chest Compression System, fulfilling a critical need within the department.
“On behalf of the department and its members, I want to thank the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation and our local Firehouse Subs in Gadsden for recognizing our needs and awarding funding to provide this equipment,” said Jim Witherington, EMS Officer for the City of Ashville. “Providing first responders with the right tools is crucial for them to successfully do their jobs. The new LUCAS 3 Chest Compression System will be used to better serve our community. The new equipment will free up one of our personnel on cardiac arrest emergencies, allowing them to assist victims in other ways.”
The LUCAS device allows for mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to be performed by delivering uninterrupted chest compressions at a consistent rate, reducing firefighter fatigue and helping improve a patient’s chance of survival.
The grant is part of more than $79 million given by Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation across the United States.
For the past 18 years, donations have been the driving force behind Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation supporting first responders and public safety organizations nationwide.
In 2005, the Firehouse Subs founders established the 501(c)(3), non-profit Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The charity provides lifesaving equipment, prevention education, scholarships and continued education and disaster relief for first responders and public safety organizations, as well as support for military veterans.
According to Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, more than 70 percent of the funds raised for the foundation come from the generosity of Firehouse Subs guests and the restaurant brand.
