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When local first responders are called to a fire, accident or other emergency, the Salvation Army EMS Van is another community resource that can arrive to help.

The mobile unit responds to emergency scenes throughout the area, providing practical support such as food, water and blankets for first responders and residents affected by an emergency. It also offers encouragement and support during situations that can be stressful and difficult for everyone involved.

The service is one of the many ways the Salvation Army supports the Altoona community beyond its more familiar holiday programs.

At emergency scenes, firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel and other responders may spend hours working under difficult conditions. Having food, water and other basic necessities available can provide important support while they remain focused on the work at hand.

The EMS Van also assists individuals and families whose lives may have been suddenly disrupted by a fire, accident or other emergency.

Through services like the EMS Van, the Salvation Army works alongside local emergency responders to help care for both the people serving the community and those who need assistance during an emergency.

For more information about local programs and services, visit The Salvation Army Altoona Corps.

Photo courtesy of The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division.

First responders are often called to some of the most difficult and traumatic moments in our community. The Blair Emergency Services Chaplain Platoon helps make sure the people responding to those emergencies have support of their own.

The volunteer organization provides counseling and mental health support to first responders who may be affected by the traumatic events they experience on the job. Its services include support for post-traumatic stress and suicide counseling.

Police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel and other emergency responders may witness serious accidents, fires, disasters and other events that can have a lasting impact. The Chaplain Platoon provides a local resource for these workers when they need someone to turn to.

The organization is entirely volunteer-based and relies on community support and fundraising efforts to continue its work.

Supporting the mental and emotional well-being of first responders is an important part of supporting public safety as a whole. Organizations like the Blair Emergency Services Chaplain Platoon help provide that support to the men and women who are there for the community during its most difficult moments.

For more information about the organization and upcoming activities, visit the Blair Emergency Services Chaplain Platoon on Facebook.