A local fundraiser in Blair County is raising money for emergency responders and Christmas Carol, special program hosted by Froggy 93.
Family Fun Day at Legion park is an event filled with food, games, and other activities.
Proceeds collected throughout the day help purchase new equipment for the Hollidaysburg Ambulance.
Matthew Replogle, Paramedic Supervisor for the company, said it’s a big help because “we only get funding from the insurance companies whenever we bill them after emergency calls. We do not get any government funding.”
The ambulance crew is based in Hollidaysburg and has two sub-stations for more area coverage.
Without a steady flow of funds, it can be tough for dispatchers to stay afloat.
In the past some local ambulance companies have had to merge or shutdown completely due to a lack of financial support.
Wayne Wolfe, an EMT with Hollidaysburg Ambulance said that’s a risky situation for everyone, “It’s very crucial. What would happen if you call 911 and no one showed up? So it’s very critical.”
The event is also an opportunity for community members of all ages to show their support for those who come to the rescue.
“I’m showing the ambulance today, that’s what I’m doing! And they seem to be enjoying it. They’re learning a lot and it’s just nice to talk to the kids and have them see what we actually do,” Wolfe said.