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Published Feb. 11 by Business Wire
Prudential defibrillator grants available again
Business Wire
Neward, N.J. — Volunteer rescue squads and fire departments nationwide will again be given a jump start in their efforts to save lives as Prudential reopens its Helping Hearts Program, which helps volunteer-based emergency medical service (EMS) squads acquire portable cardiac defibrillators.
The 1999 Prudential Helping Hearts Program provides grants of up to $1,000 to qualifying volunteer rescue squads and fire departments in any state to help defray the cost of purchasing a defibrillator. Defibrillators, which administer jolts of electricity to "reset" the heart's natural rhythm, have been called one of the most important lifesaving inventions of the 20th century.
Each year, more than 250,000 Americans suffer sudden cardiac failure, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown that on-site defibrillation more than doubles a victim's chances of survival.
To be eligible for a Helping Hearts grant, volunteer EMS squads must meet state defibrillation training requirements and raise the rest of the cost of a defibrillator themselves. Applications will be considered on a first-come basis. Squads interested in applying should contact their nearest Prudential office for an application after March 1. The application can also be downloaded at any time from Prudential's World Wide Web site at www.prudential.com/community
1999 Prudential Helping Hearts
Prudential launched the Helping Hearts program on Valentines Day 1994 in New Jersey, and in 1996 expanded it to California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin. In 1997, the program went national. To date, nearly 1,900 volunteer rescue squads have qualified for more than $4 million in grants, and many lives have been saved with machines purchased through the Helping Hearts program.
"Prudential has seen the difference volunteer ambulance crews are making with portable defibrillators," said Prudential Chairman and CEO Art Ryan. "We applaud their selfless dedication to serving their communities and are pleased to be able to assist them in their heroic efforts."
Prudential, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, donates millions of dollars and thousands of employee volunteer hours to support non-profit programs throughout the state and across the country.
CONTACT:
Rachel Ingber 973-802-7134
Michael Schneider 973-367-2442
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