NC paramedic students typically roll up their sleeves to help the vulnerable in Niagara – but in mid-October, they donated them.
On October 17, a group of NC paramedic students and instructors gathered at the Applied Health Institute at the Welland Campus to remove patches from unneeded, uniform winter jackets, so they could be donated those in need.
“Our Lab technologist Ashely Potts came up with the idea as a way to create a sense of community among the Year 2 paramedic students and to support the community in need,” noted Tina Annet, paramedic programs manager. “This opportunity is a way for the students to prepare for their future careers as public servants.”
Second-year Paramedic student Abby Lampman was among nine students who participating in removing paramedic student patches from uniform, high-visibility jackets. She noted that students are issued a uniform which includes the high-visibility winter jackets but over the years, several jackets have not been claimed and sat in storage.
She reflected on how their task will benefit the community.
“Throughout our program, we have several community placements where we have the opportunity to interact with many people who face homelessness, and low income. Often, these people do not always have on proper attire suitable for the weather,” Lampman said. “With temperatures dropping, and weather becoming less than desirable, the need for proper attire is growing.”
“Participating in various initiatives, such as this one, really allow me to reflect on how fortunate I am, and that those in the community that I will serve may not be as fortunate.”
As a result of their efforts, about 30 jackets were collected, which will be dropped off to Start Me Up Niagara’s Mobile Closet in St. Catharines which provides free, new and gently used clothing and other daily necessities to the unsheltered and low-income population in Niagara.
Staff and students from the Paramedic program remove student patches from unused uniform winter jackets at the Applied Health Institute on October 17. The jackets will be donated to help those in need in the community.
