County organizations invite citizens to help defeat Covid-19
The Allamakee County Community Foundation and the Allamakee County Emergency Medical Services are partnering to reduce COVID-19 community spread.
The Community Foundation has announced it will match up to $3,500 in donations from individuals, organizations and local businesses toward the purchase of ultraviolet (UV) lights for six ambulances and a larger light for Veterans Memorial Hospital. UV lights can be used for efficient, safe room sanitation in as little as 10 minutes, and can be remotely activated. This greatly shortens sanitation time and allows medical spaces to be occupied much more quickly following patient use.
The Allamakee County EMS is inviting EMS departments of New Albin, Lansing, Harpers Ferry, Waterville, Postville and Waukon to participate in this challenge grant. Allamakee County community members, organizations and businesses are encouraged to join the effort by making a tax-deductible contribution.
“EMS services touch us all. This is a meaningful way for Allamakee County residents to help our community,” says Betty Steege, foundation coordinator. “It looks like the coronavirus may be here for a while, and we will all benefit from the added layer of safety in reducing COVID-19 community spread.”
“The disinfecting practices used by the ambulance services in Allamakee County have always been a high priority for patient and provider safety. Adding a UV light to the existing practice allows us to disinfect on a new level and enhance everyone’s safety,” says Cheryl Livingston, a paramedic with the Veterans Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service and Allamakee County EMS.
Donations made payable to the ACCF Covid-19 Health Response Fund can be mailed to the Allamakee County Community Foundation, PO Box 332, Waukon, IA 52172 or made online at dbqfoundation.org/allamakeedisaster.
Donations can also be dropped off at the following bank collection points either into the depository inside vestibules or at drive-thru windows:
- New Albin Savings Bank
- Kerndt Brothers Bank, Lansing or Waukon
- Waukon State Bank
- Peoples Savings Bank, Harpers Ferry
- Freedom Bank, Postville or Waukon
- Fidelity Bank, Postville