Del Norte Ambulance and Yurok Tribe launch EMT scholarship program amid staffing crisis – KRCR
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by Veonna King
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KLAMATH, Calif. — Del Norte Ambulance, in partnership with the Yurok Tribe, is calling on Klamath residents to apply for its newly launched EMT and paramedic scholarship programs. The initiative, the first of its kind for Del Norte Ambulance, offers four scholarships for EMT classes at institutions such as the College of the Redwoods, which has campuses in Del Norte and Humboldt counties.
Charles Tweed for Del Norte Ambulance highlighted the recruitment challenges faced in recent years, stating, "Ever since COVID, the healthcare has seen a dramatic loss in personnel, and so recruitment and retention to a rural community like ours is very difficult."
Amos Pole, Yurok Tribe Office of Emergency Services manager, emphasized the urgency, noting that emergency services are often miles away, with response times exceeding 20 minutes. "Between the two regional areas, Del Norte and Humboldt County, you may at any given time, depending on what's happening in the county, and that may have to come from Humboldt County, so typical travel time for the EMS unit in the past has been about 40 minutes," Pole said.
The scholarships, which will remain open until filled, offer recipients wages while attending classes. "We will always pay the scholarship winner the wages while in class, so that number escalates quite a bit," said Tweed.
For more information on how to apply, interested individuals can contact Charles Tweed at 707-487-1116 or 707-218-7880, or via email at charles.tweed@delnorteambulance.us.com.
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