Support WVRS Headquarters Revamp

If you're lucky, you've never had to make an emergency call to 911 that would change your life forever. But if you have, you know how truly valuable the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad actually is.

One local resident and business owner, Christine Escribano of Cherry Home Designs had to make such a call this past February when her husband and business partner, John Pizzi, had a seizure that almost took his life.

Christine said within a few short minutes, the WVRS arrived, and not only did they get him to the hospital quickly, but saved his life when he coded in the ambulance not once, but twice.

To say Christine and John are grateful is an understatement, so when WVRS Chief Troy Ellis was looking for help to do some cosmetic upgrades to their headquarters, now over 70+ years old, Christine and John jumped at the chance, volunteering to do the work at cost to show their appreciation.

Christine shared this story with Amanda Vargas, the host of That Westfield Podcast, who suggested launching a town-wide fundraising campaign in order to maximize Christine and John's efforts.

The group, along with other local business owners, toured the facility to see what the squad needed to "spruce up" the place and quickly found these heroes were in need of some major repairs.

The all-volunteer Rescue Squad of 88 members never complained once about the outdated 20+ year old furniture, sleeping quarters with 10+ year old mattresses, small offices and lack of shower facilities, but after discussing what their round-the-clock shifts entail, they could not believe how selfless these folks are to do what they do without everything they need.

As much as the WVRS would love to update their facility on their own, they are extremely limited with all funds raised going to their operations. They do not receive ANY funding from the town of Westfield; all of their operating expenses come from two main fund drives they hold each year.

Christine and her team of designers, along with John and his contractors are currently mapping out a plan to bring this building back to life and make it "home" for the volunteers.

If you'd like to hear more from Chief Troy Ellis and Deputy Chief Jessica Romero, you can watch them on the latest episode of That Westfield Podcast on YouTube to learn more.

Renovations are set to begin mid-September based on the funds raised by August 15th.

All funds raised here will go directly to the renovation efforts, but please also visit www.westfieldems.org and consider making a monthly donation to help keep them operating in Westfield and to also check out upcoming events.

Sometimes we don't realize we need them, until we need them.

Thank you for your generosity.