Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (December 17, 2015) – Abilities First, a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of those with developmental disabilities from pre-school through adulthood, was awarded $2,021.00 from the Cardiovascular Fund of Dutchess County of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, to provide an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the Abilities First Seniors’ Neighborhood Center in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
The Seniors’ Neighborhood Center provides day habilitationThe acquisition of certain skills required for a self-sufficient life. More services for senior citizens with varying levels of intellectual disabilities, many of whom are medically frail. The AED on location will allow staff to offer immediate medical assistance during a cardiac event. Abilities First is a part of the Public Access Defibrillator Program under the Department of Public Health and Bureau of Emergency Medical Services.
Created by community leaders as the Area Fund, the Community Foundation of the Hudson Valley is a public nonprofit charitable organization representing thousands of donors through more than 500 separate funds that make up its endowment. The Cardiovascular Fund of Dutchess County aims to improve accessibility to emergency health services in order to save lives.
“We are grateful to the Cardiovascular Fund of Dutchess County in awarding this grant, to assure lifesaving equipment is available when delivering our services to our senior population,” said Chief Advancement Officer Melissa McCoy.