York County Emergency Management Agency Receives Grant

York County Emergency Management Agency has been awarded a $3,450 grant from

the Maine Community Connections Program to establish a cost-effective emergency communication network for older adults in northern York County communities.

The grant will fund the purchase of 50 GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios and 50 GMRS family licenses, creating a vital communications lifeline for seniors during extended power outages and emergency situations.

"This project addresses a real vulnerability in our rural communities," said Deputy Director Megan Arsenault at York County Emergency Management Agency. "When power goes out during storms, older adults can become isolated for extended periods. This GMRS radio network will help ensure they can stay connected to local officials and each other when traditional communication methods fail."

The initiative specifically targets northern York County and towns within the Sacopee Valley where the radio network will enable local officials and first responders to maintain contact with residents during emergencies.

The project leverages existing volunteer networks to maximize impact and ensure sustainability. The York County Emergency Communications Team will provide training on GMRS radio operation, assist with licensing applications, and verify radio coverage throughout the service area.

Local community groups, including the Grateful Undead, a Sacopee Valley non-profit that works to help residents age in place, are partnering to publicize the program and provide essential community input to drive municipal buy-in.

The Maine Community Connections Program connects older adults and caregivers to resources through state, regional, and local partners by developing community-based navigator programs across Maine.

"We're excited to see how this project brings together volunteers, local government, and community organizations," noted Parsonsfield Selectboard Member, Jen Lewis. "It's a perfect example of how targeted investments can create lasting connections in our communities."

Communication can be dicey or non-existent when storms or other emergency situations develop and soon, some older residents in northern York County will better able to stay in touch when that happens. York County Emergency Management Agency has been awarded grant funding for 50 GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios and licenses, and members of the volunteer York County Emergency Communications Team will provide training on radio operation. Some team members here, with their radios, are Ralph Sacco, Paul Cormier and Neil Tolman.

Source: York County Emergency Management Agency, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Chris McCall