Middle Township Ambulance Corps Seeks Financial Support

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP – The Middle Township Ambulance Corps is warning that it may not survive without a significant financial contribution from the township.

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP – The Middle Township Ambulance Corps is warning that it may not survive without a significant financial contribution from the township. During a March 3 meeting, Corps President Debra Rue requested $80,000 in annual funding, stating that the all-volunteer service cannot sustain its $125,000 yearly budget through donations alone. Mayor Chris Leusner acknowledged the Corps’ importance but expressed doubt that the township could allocate that level of funding while keeping tax rates manageable. The township already pays AtlantiCare $88,000 per year for EMS services, including two ambulances year-round and a third during the summer months. Unlike AtlantiCare, the volunteer Corps cannot charge patients for services and relies heavily on external financial support. Previously, the township had a paid EMS department and a second volunteer service, the Rio Grande Rescue Squad, but both were discontinued due to budget constraints. The remaining volunteer Corps, which has been operating since 1958, now has 39 active members and is struggling to remain afloat. The township currently assists by allowing the Corps to join its insurance plan at reduced rates and providing help with fuel expenses. However, Rue stressed that without a substantial financial boost, the organization may not be able to continue. A social media campaign has been launched to rally public support, while township officials work on the 2025 budget.