Youth sports and camps in Ulster County will soon be required to have automated external defibrillators (AEDs), thanks to a new state law, and the county is now offering grants for their purchase.

With $250,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funding, the county says it will provide up to $5,000 per organization for equipment and training.

“An AED can save a life in the event of sudden cardiac arrest, and it makes good sense for every summer camp and sports program to have this equipment at the ready and to have an individual trained in its use,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “I want to thank the Ulster County Legislature for creating this ARPA-funded program, which will help ensure that camps and sports programs can afford to make this essential public health and safety investment.”

The state law, which went into effect in 2024, also requires that at least one person at each summer camp or youth sport be certified in the use of the AED.

“As both the Director of Emergency Services and a coach in the Highland Youth Football and Cheer Program, I wholeheartedly support this initiative,” said Everett Erichsen, Ulster County Department of Emergency Services Director. “AEDs can mean the difference between life and death in cardiac emergencies, and making them more accessible at youth sports events and camps is a game-changer for our community's safety. This $250,000 grant program demonstrates Ulster County's commitment to protecting our young athletes and ensuring peace of mind for parents and coaches alike. By investing in these life-saving devices, we're not just enhancing safety, we're also educating our community about the importance of emergency preparedness. It's a proactive step that could save young lives and set an example for others to follow.”

This grant is available for non-profit (501c3) camps as well as youth games and sports programs that are not municipally operated. Grant applications are due by October 15, 2024. A copy of the application can be found at bit.ly/3SvNcTf. For more information, email AEDGrant@co.ulster.ny.us.