FCC commits $500,000 over five years to STARS air ambulance

FCC commits $500,000 over five years to STARS air ambulance 2 Jun, 15, Source: FCC

Farm Credit Canada (FCC) today announced a $500,000 contribution over five years to STARS air ambulance, providing life-saving transportation to patients in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

“STARS provides critical care and transportation for rural residents who don’t have quick or easy access to health care in emergency situations,” said Michael Hoffort, FCC president and CEO. “One of the reasons FCC exists is to enhance the lives of farm families and rural Canadians, and STARS can make a huge difference when it matters most. We’re proud to lend a hand to this great cause.”

STARS air ambulance currently operates from three bases in Alberta, two in Saskatchewan and one in Manitoba. Since 1985, STARS has flown more than 29,000 missions from its six bases.

“STARS is pleased to be partnering with a long-standing organization, such as Farm Credit Canada. The organization’s goal of enhancing rural communities aligns perfectly with our mission of providing critical care to rural patients in need,” said Andrea Robertson, STARS’ president and CEO. “We are indeed grateful for their generous donation.”

Garfield Beaudry is a beneficiary of STARS’ air ambulance service. In 2012, he experienced a debilitating heart attack on his Raymore-area farm and was rushed to the Regina General Hospital by STARS.

“I think of that day nearly every day of my life and I think of how fortunate I am,” Beaudry said. “When people get into any kind of problem and need immediate care and a speedy pick up, STARS is the helicopter that comes. I like to think of them as angels with red wings.”

FCC’s contribution will be spread evenly over STARS’ operations in the three Prairie provinces. The funds will be used to help cover costs associated with medical and communication equipment, helicopter upgrades, as well as medical training.

STARS air ambulance provides specialized emergency medical care and transportation for critically ill and injured patients. Their physicians, nurses, paramedics and pilots work with a team of dedicated support staff and community partners to save lives. STARS has bases in Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg.

FCC is Canada’s leading agriculture lender, with a healthy portfolio of more than $27 billion and 21 consecutive years of portfolio growth. FCC is strong and stable – committed to serving the industry through all cycles, and to being socially and environmentally responsible. FCC provides financing, insurance, software, learning programs and other business services to producers, agribusinesses and agri-food operations. Employees understand agriculture and are committed to the success of customers and the industry. With FCC in the market, producers benefit, agriculture benefits, rural Canada benefits and so do all Canadians. For more information, visit www.fcc.ca.

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