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Dutchess County is offering a second round of funding through its Fly Car Grant Program to support local emergency services. The initiative provides up to $100,000 for fire departments, rescue squads, and ambulance corps to purchase life-saving equipment for their fly car vehicles. County Executive Sue Serino emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, "When you’re having a medical emergency, every second counts – and our first responders need every tool possible to save lives" (Dutchess County Executive).
The program aims to address the ongoing emergency medical services (EMS) crisis by improving response times and enhancing the capabilities of first responders. Agencies that received funding in the previous round are eligible to apply again, but preference will be given to new applicants. Grants will range from $5,000 to $20,000 and are provided on a reimbursement basis. Applications are due by August 26, with awards expected to be announced in October.
The Fly Car Grant Program also includes a recruitment component, with participating agencies agreeing to display standardized recruitment graphics on their vehicles to encourage residents to consider EMS careers (Department of Emergency Response). The initiative is part of a broader $2 million investment in EMS outlined in Serino's 2025 budget proposal, which also includes supplemental ambulance coverage and workforce development efforts.