SHELTON — Echo Hose Ambulance is proud to announce it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Valley Community Foundation to support its nonprofit Community Training Center. The funding will help offset operational costs while also allowing the organization to purchase updated training equipment to enhance the quality of its educational programs.
The Echo Hose Ambulance Community Training Center is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable education programs, including EMT certification, CPR, and First Aid training. In addition to serving students, the facility plays a vital role in supporting the broader community by offering free space to local nonprofit organizations and public safety partners.
Community partners such as TEAM, Inc. utilize the facility for impactful initiatives, including operating a month-long holiday toy store that supports families in need. The center also hosts meetings for local nonprofits, public safety training programs such as Valley Firefighter 1, and full-scale training exercises for area police departments.
“This grant allows us to continue delivering affordable, high-quality training while keeping our pricing at 2018 levels—the last time we made any adjustments,” said Assistant Chief Joseph Laucella. “It also enables us to invest in updated training equipment that enhances the hands-on learning experience for our students. Cost should never be a barrier for someone looking to start a career in EMS, expand their education, or gain lifesaving skills.”
The training center serves a wide range of individuals, including those pursuing careers as EMTs, firefighters, and physician assistants, as well as local businesses and community organizations seeking professional training at an affordable cost. By helping offset operational expenses and invest in modern equipment, the grant ensures continued access to these essential programs across the Valley and surrounding region.
“With support from organizations like the Valley Community Foundation, as well as donations from local businesses and residents, we are able to further our mission of serving the community through exceptional pre-hospital care and education,” Laucella added.
Echo Hose Ambulance encourages local businesses and organizations to partner with its training programs. Hiring Echo Hose’s professional instructors not only provides high-quality training but also directly supports the organization’s long standing mission.
Chief Chaffee expressed his appreciation, stating, “We extend our sincere thanks to the Valley Community Foundation for their continued support of our community’s emergency medical services and first responder education programs. This investment strengthens both our training capabilities and our ability to serve the public.”
Founded in 1949, Echo Hose Ambulance is a nonprofit organization that responds to more than 7,200 emergency calls annually. The organization operates with a dedicated team of both volunteer and paid EMTs and paramedics, providing lifesaving care to the community.
For more information about training programs or to schedule a class, please contact Echo Hose Ambulance at (203) 924-5500, email info@sheltonems.com, or visit www.echohose.org. To support their mission or make a donation, please visit their website.