Utica – A new rescue truck was purchased by the Whitesboro Volunteer Fire Department thanks to grant money Assemblywoman for District 119, Marianne Buttenschon secured. The unveiling took place at the Whitesboro Volunteer Fire Department on Friday.

“The members of the Whitesboro Fire Department are gratefully thankful for the vital contributions, support and dedication that Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon has shown through this generous grant.

This grant has enabled the Village of Whitesboro to purchase a new 2023 Chevy Suburban rescue vehicle. The rescue responds to more than 70% of all emergencies of the fire department.

With this new and more functional vehicle, our paramedics and EMT’s are now capable of responding with more advanced drugs, lifesaving equipment and personnel.”Fire Chief George Massarotti said “Assemblywoman Buttenschon has done a great service to the Village of Whitesboro and to the Whitestown community by securing 64% of the funding for our new fire rescue. We are extremely thankful!” Mayor of Whitesboro, Glen Hopsicker said.

“Our first responders are a vital part of our communities. I am always happy when I can support the people that help us and who are always there to answer our calls when we need them. The Whitesboro Fire Department has a long-distinguished history dating back to the 1830’s and has continued to serve this community well, with new modern equipment, they will be able to serve for many more years and decades to come.” Assemblywoman Buttenschon said.

The Whitesboro Volunteer Fire Department has been serving the community for over 125 years. It provides fire and EMS services to the 13,500 residents of the Village of Whitesboro and the Town of Whitestown. It also provides mutual aid to communities that surround its department members. These dedicated men and women proudly put their lives on hold to answer a neighbor’s call for help.

The Whitesboro Volunteer Fire Department also has the Junior Firefighter Program which accepts 16 and 17-year-olds. Several members have progressed through the Junior Program and have entered into a fire protection technology program which is leading them to a fulfilling career in the fire service.