Sen. Griffo secures funding for new ambulance for COCVAC

WHITESBORO – State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, announced today that he has secured $100,000 for the Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Corps (COCVAC), which has used the funding to purchase a new ambulance.
 
“Emergency responders need to have the most up-to-date equipment and vehicles to effectively do their jobs,” Sen. Griffo said. “This ambulance will help to save lives and protect people in the community. I will always work hard to ensure that agencies such as COCVAC have the resources and equipment they need to keep our communities safe.”
 
With the funding, COCVAC was able to buy a 2017 Ford Transit Ambulance that was manufactured by Demers Ambulances. The emergency vehicle was purchased through Northeastern Rescue Vehicles of Syracuse.

“Ensuring that we are prepared to respond in someone’s time of need requires a reliable fleet,” said COVAC EMS Chief Steve Dziura. “Last year, COCVAC responded to over 4,000 calls across nine townships in Oneida and Madison Counties. Thanks to Sen. Griffo, we were able to secure the necessary funding needed to replace one of our oldest vehicles while also integrating the newest safety standards into this ambulance.”

COVAC has station locations in Westmoreland, the Whitesboro Fire Department and in Deansboro and covers Augusta, Kirkland, Marshal, New Hartford, Rome, Sangerfield, Vernon, Westmoreland and Whitestown. The organization is made up over 100 individuals and has provided professional medical care in both emergency and non-emergency settings since 1970.