SERINO ANNOUNCES SECOND ROUND OF FLY CAR GRANT OPPORTUNITY TO STRENGTHEN EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

 Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino is launching a second round of the County’s Fly Car Grant Program, providing up to $100,000 to help local fire departments, rescue squads, and ambulance corps to purchase life-saving equipment for their fly car vehicles. This initiative is part of Serino’s ongoing efforts to help address the emergency medical services (EMS) crisis.

“When you’re having a medical emergency, every second counts – and our first responders need every tool possible to save lives,” said Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino. “Last year’s Fly Car Grant helped agencies get critical equipment out into our communities faster. By launching another round, we’re doubling down on our commitment to support our local EMS providers, improve response times, and strengthen this vital safety net for residents.”

This program is open to local fire departments, fire districts, and ambulance corps that serve Dutchess County. Agencies that received a Fly Car Grant last year are eligible to apply again, though preference will be given to those that did not receive funding in the first round. Individual grant awards will range from $5,000 to $20,000 and will be provided on a reimbursement basis only. Funding can be used for equipment required under state regulations for emergency ambulance service vehicles other than an ambulance as well as items like AEDs or external chest compression systems that expand or enhance a fly car’s life-saving capabilities.

As with last year’s program, participating agencies will agree to install County-supplied standardized recruitment graphics on the rear of their fly cars, encouraging more residents to consider career and volunteer opportunities in EMS – an important step toward strengthening the local workforce of the future.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the Dutchess County Grant Portal by 3:00 PM on August 26, 2025. Awards are expected to be announced in October.

Applicants must ensure compliance with Dutchess County’s Procurement Policies and Procedures. Full instructions and guidance are available online. For more information, please contact the Department of Emergency Response at 845-486-2080.