McLean Citizens Foundation funds Heavy Rescue Squad Truck for McLean Volunteer Fire Department

MCF helping to improve fire and rescue services in the McLean area

December 18, 2004, McLean, VA - Trustees of the McLean Citizens Foundation (MCF) -- charitable arm for the McLean Planning District -- presented the McLean Volunteer Fire Department with a check for $25,000, the first of two installments toward the purchase of a new Heavy Rescue Squad vehicle to serve the local community. The Foundation agreed to match the department's own fundraising efforts -- dollar for dollar up to $50,000. The Department has raised upwards of $100,000 on their own.

The grant will help purchase specialized equipment used for automobile accidents, hazardous materials spills and technical rescues, such as trapped victims. The existing equipment has well over 300,000 miles and is far past its life expectancy. Additionally, the next closest unit of similar utility, only one of seven in all of Fairfax County, is located some 20 miles from downtown McLean.

Clyde Clark, Chief of the McLean Volunteer Fire Department, was thrilled when he heard the news. "The generosity of MCF will allow us to update our rescue services. The purchase of this new equipment will mean that our fifteen year old heavy rescue vehicle can be retired. Its replacement will incorporate new technologies that have become available."

MCF President Jim Hunt acknowledged, "This is a project that the MCF Trustees agreed to unanimously. It will truly benefit our entire community, a goal that MCF fosters and works toward in our grant decisions."

For more information about the McLean Citizens Foundation, go to www.mcleancitizensfoundation.org.