Ulster County launches AED Grant Program for youth camps, sports

KINGSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- Ulster County is investing in new Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) for summer camps and youth sports programs through a new grant program using American Rescue Plan Act funds. Non-profit camps, youth games, or sports programs not run by a municipality can fill out an application online.

A change to the New York State Public Health Law requires all summer camps and youth sports programs to have an AED available and an individual certified to use it during activities. The county is providing up to $5,000 for equipment and training to summer camps and sports programs that apply.

Applications are due by Tuesday, Oct. 15, and applicants can email AEDGrant@co.ulster.ny.us for more information. Legislator and ARPA Committee Chair Tom Corcoran said using AEDs in youth sports is crucial.

"Young athletes are 3.5 times more likely to experience sudden cardiac arrest than non-athletes," Corcoran said. "This grant is instrumental in helping to protect thousands of kids in Ulster County, and takes a significant step toward saving these precious young lives."