The communities of Buena Vista Township and Buena Boro have been served jointly by the Minotola Rescue Squad for over 50 years. Both communities have grown over the years. The Minotola Rescue Squad was responding to approximately 700 calls annually. In March of 1999, Chief Carlo Merighi of the Richland Fire Co., District #1, and Chief Ron Ruggeri of the East Vineland Fire Co., District #2, decided that a new rescue squad was needed.

Starting a new rescue squad from scratch would be very expensive. With the help of USDA Rural Development, we were able to obtain a $32,500 Community Facilities direct loan to purchase a pre-owned ambulance and a $17,500 Community Facilities grant to purchase additional equipment. With grant funds, we purchased two defibrillators – one for the first responder and the other for the ambulance. In addition, a variety of other new equipment was purchased for the vehicle to enable us to respond to any emergency. Working with USDA proved to be a very pleasant experience for all concerned.

The community has taken great pride in the development of the new organization. In the short time we have been in existence, we already have 1 paramedic, 16 EMTs and 10 first responders. In addition, we have 10 members who assist in administrative functions. Having a fully equipped ambulance and new equipment will certainly help us acquire new members.

The Buena